Tehran (Iran) – Iran Parliament, the Islamic Consultative Assembly, has re-elected Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf as Speaker of Iran Parliament, extending his leadership for the sixth consecutive year.
Ghalibaf won 219 out of 272 votes, defeating ultraconservative challenger Ahmad Rastineh, who received 36 votes. Hadi Ghavami, the third candidate, withdrew just before voting began. This vote confirms Ghalibaf’s second year of leadership in the 12th parliamentary term.
Rivals and Political Alignments in Iran Parliament
Initially, three candidates entered the race:
- Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, representing the principalist bloc.
- Ahmad Rastineh, backed by the ultraconservative Paydari (Resistance) Front.
- Hadi Ghavami, associated with moderate conservatives and seen as reformist-leaning.
Ghavami’s last-minute withdrawal drew criticism. Rastineh accused Ghalibaf’s camp of influencing the outcome with strategic timing.
Ghalibaf’s Political Background
Ghalibaf has served as Speaker of Iran Parliament since 2020. He previously held multiple high-ranking roles:
- Mayor of Tehran (2005–2017)
- Chief of Police (2000–2005)
- Commander of the IRGC Air Force (1997–2000)
He has also run for president several times, though unsuccessfully.
Controversy and Opposition
Despite his re-election, Ghalibaf faces internal resistance, especially from the Paydari Front. In recent weeks, the ultraconservatives campaigned to unseat him. They criticized his legislative decisions, claiming they clashed with the views of President Masoud Pezeshkian’s administration.
Moreover, Ghalibaf’s name has surfaced in several alleged financial corruption cases, although no formal charges have been filed.
Iran Parliament: New Deputy Speakers Elected
Alongside Ghalibaf’s re-election, lawmakers also voted for two deputy speakers:
- Ali Nikzad as First Deputy Speaker
- Hamidreza Haji-Babaei as Second Deputy Speaker
The Iranian Parliament’s leadership board consists of 12 members: one speaker, two deputies, six secretaries, and three supervisors.
Looking Ahead
With Ghalibaf maintaining his position, the Parliament is likely to continue its current legislative trajectory. However, rising tensions between conservative factions may shape future debates and impact policymaking.
Ghalibaf’s re-election reflects his continued dominance in Iran’s political landscape, despite internal party divisions and public controversies.
Iran Parliament – Islamic Consultative Assembly
Bulgarian Parliament Speaker Rejects President’s Call for Euro Referendum
