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Rouhani Meets Khamenei to Discuss New Government Formation | ASHARQ AL-AWSAT English Archive 2005 -2017
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Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei departs after casting his ballot in the parliamentary election in Tehran March 2, 2012. REUTERS/Caren Firouz


London – Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is expected to meet with Spiritual Leader Ali Khamenei to discuss the formation of the new government, amid bickering between the Iranian prime minister, the IRGC and the judiciary.

Rouhani is facing increasing pressure from his opponents, who are looking to impose a compromise on his second government, in light of the presidential elections results, which saw the president winning 16 million votes.

While the formation of the new government has turned into a controversial issue, the past days have seen strong bickering between Rouhani and leaders from the IRGC, following harsh criticism by the president of the military apparatus’ interference in the country’s economic, political and media affairs.

In this context, Iranian Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri said that Rouhani was currently holding talks with regime officials to form a new government. He added that the president was seeking the creation of a cabinet that would meet the Iranian people’s economic, social and political aspirations.

Jahangiri noted that a meeting is expected to be held on Monday between Rouhani and Khamenei to discuss the cabinet issue.

The Iranian spiritual leader usually intervenes in five ministries, which include the defense, security, interior, foreign affairs, culture and media – but key ministries such as the economy and oil are likely to see a change in ministers, according to well-informed political sources.

Iran’s oil minister, Bijan Zangeneh, said he did not expect to remain in Rouhani’s second government, especially following mounting pressure he faced last week after signing an agreement with France’s Total company.

The Iranian Constitution stipulates that the minister of justice is chosen from among the names proposed by the head of the judiciary.

Ambiguity also surrounds the future of Foreign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarif, as Rouhani must obtain the approval of Khamenei, whether he wanted to keep Zarif or change him.