Dr. Jahanpour, the fact that Kavekebian lost his seat in Semnan doesn't mean much given that all MPs (principlist, independent or reformist) have a very tough time in getting re-elected in the Majlis. However, you are correct that some prominent reformists think Kavakebian is not a "bona fide" reformist. Hence, someone like Aref would be preferred if they decide to participate: He is a member of the Expediency council and so must have been appointed by Khamenei.
Amirahmadi is just grandstanding. As an Iranian holding U.S citizenship he has no chance of being approved by the Guardians council to run. Even if he were, he is an unknown figure in Iran with no popular base whatsoever. This is just an ego trip for Hooshang.
This is flawed analysis. Rowhani is not a reformist, but a moderate/centrist. Also, the Guardians council has approved reformist candidates in the past, including Kavakebian, in both presidential and parliamentary contests. The rumour that they intend to disqualify all reformists is unfounded. It is quite possible that Mohammad Reza Aref, a former vice-president under Khatami, will be the reformists' candidate. Finally, there is absolutely no evidence that the 2009 election was in any way rigged.
Dr. Jahanpour, the fact that Kavekebian lost his seat in Semnan doesn't mean much given that all MPs (principlist, independent or reformist) have a very tough time in getting re-elected in the Majlis. However, you are correct that some prominent reformists think Kavakebian is not a "bona fide" reformist. Hence, someone like Aref would be preferred if they decide to participate: He is a member of the Expediency council and so must have been appointed by Khamenei.
Amirahmadi is just grandstanding. As an Iranian holding U.S citizenship he has no chance of being approved by the Guardians council to run. Even if he were, he is an unknown figure in Iran with no popular base whatsoever. This is just an ego trip for Hooshang.
Yes, that is indeed an accurate description of Rowhani. He is unlikely to be supported by reformists even if they respect him.
This is flawed analysis. Rowhani is not a reformist, but a moderate/centrist. Also, the Guardians council has approved reformist candidates in the past, including Kavakebian, in both presidential and parliamentary contests. The rumour that they intend to disqualify all reformists is unfounded. It is quite possible that Mohammad Reza Aref, a former vice-president under Khatami, will be the reformists' candidate. Finally, there is absolutely no evidence that the 2009 election was in any way rigged.