Rafsanjani in 'conciliatory' move
BBC / BBC
23-Aug-2009 (3 comments)

Former President Ali Akbar Rafsanjani has urged Iran's political factions to follow orderFormer President Ali Akbar Rafsanjani has urged Iran's political factions to follow orders from the supreme leader, in an apparent conciliatory move.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has endorsed the disputed re-election of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in June, but Mr Rafsanjani has backed the opposition.
Correspondents say his statement seems to contradict a speech last month when he said the country was in crisis.
Official news agency Irna said he has also called for action to foster unity. s from the supreme leader, in an apparent
conciliatory move.

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DM

Rafsanjani still playing both sides

by DM on Sun Aug 23, 2009 03:44 AM PDT

Rafsanjani preserving his own power base and keeping his options open. Could be part of a deal with Khamenei, where Rafsanjani throws him a bit of support in exchange for not going after Mousavi or Karroubi.



Balatarin
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FG

Rafsanjani did not back down, says NIAC article

by FG on Sat Aug 22, 2009 05:01 PM PDT


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FG

His position remains close to Moussavi on some things

by FG on Sat Aug 22, 2009 04:31 PM PDT

According to an analysis at Enduring America, Rafsanjani hasn't budged on the issue of crimes against protesters, including the rape allegations. 

 

If the analysis is correct, in return for Rafsenjani's support, the principalists not aligned with Ahmadinejad would have to investigate seriously or lose Rafsanjani's support.  Any claims that the demonstrations were part of a "velvet revolution" promoted by foreigners would have to go too. 

 

That seems a shot at the Revolutionary Guard leaderrs and certain hardline clerics close to Mesbah Yadzi.  Such a condition would also require considerable backtracking on Khamenei's part.


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