Iranian Reformist Challenges President's Cabinet Choices

Prominent reformist political activist Abbas Abdi has asked Iran's new President, Masoud Pezeshkian, to reconsider his cabinet choices. 

"Is this list of ministers final, or will it undergo further scrutiny in the parliament?" Abdi wrote in Etimat newspaper on Tuesday.

He emphasized the need for the president to ensure that the proposed ministers are those he fully supports. 

"If it is not final, please withdraw all at this stage and propose 19 ministers that you accept," Abdi advised.

The proposed cabinet has drawn attention for its lack of diversity, having only one woman, no Sunni ministers, and no representation from ethnic minorities. 

Additionally, there is a strong presence of individuals with security and military backgrounds, leading to concerns.

Azar Mansouri, head of the Reform Front, condemned the proposed cabinet, saying, "One should not expect miracles from this government, especially considering that more than 80 percent of the country's power is in the hands of other entities."

The nominated cabinet's average age of 59.7 contradicts Pezeshkian's earlier promise that 60 percent of ministers would be under 50. 

Abdi framed these criticisms not as threats but as "opportunities for growth and reflection."

The activist particularly highlighted the Ministry of Education as a critical area of concern, calling it a "red line." 

Pezeshkian has responded to mounting criticism over his proposed cabinet and called for patience and fair judgment based on performance.

In a post on X, Pezeshkian addressed the public, saying, "Dear people, you are the government's greatest asset. Your attention and sensitivity in selecting cabinet members is valuable. Indifference to politicians' behavior has given way to criticism. This means we have taken a step forward."

The president emphasized the consultative process behind the cabinet selections, noting, "In the selection and review stage of the cabinet, we consulted numerous experts and tried to create the best possible situation with existing capacities, using an approach of consensus and empathy."

Pezeshkian urged critics to reserve their judgment, saying, "Let the cabinet work and criticize it based on its performance."