Post-election protests in the streets of Tehran.
Lots of fraud allegations going around. I’m no Persia expert, but it seems that there is enough conservative, religious fundamentalist support (particularly in rural areas) to conclude that Ahmadinejad probably won, but these protests highlight a vexing governance problem. What to you do when a majority in a country support illiberal regimes and policies? Should the public be able to vote to curtail fundamental freedoms (speech, worship, assembly, etc.)? In our country, we say no. It’s hard to see these young people in the streets and not feel for their struggle.
Comments 4
Savash — June 14, 2009
Shortly after the elections, mobile communications were shut down. As were reformist newspapers and websites. Should a government with a leader holding a whopping majority of votes really fear the opposition so much as to go to these lengths. Mousavi, the lead opponent is now placed in house arrest, and no precautions are being taken for his safety. he will probably be accused of various crimes in the days to come.
If this is the outcome of a democratic election, what is the point of voting?
True, Ahmadinejad does have supporters in the rural areas and amongst fundamentalists and the poor; but the demography shows us that the youth, under the age of 30, are the great majority of the country. I find it unlikely that these youths would deviate so far from their peers in Tehran, as to produce such a majority win for Ahmadinejad.
The protesters knew what would happen if they would chant in the streets. The police brutality was no surprise. I can only imagine what devastation would incline someone to gather the strength to go through with it.
ThickCulture » #CNN Fail — June 15, 2009
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jose — June 16, 2009
I agree with you. The courage of the protesters is astounding. Looking at the analysis of the vote totals from people smarter than me, I'm pretty convinced that there was fraud going on. I pray for the best.
ThickCulture » Fire David Letterman v. Jumpstart His Ratings — June 18, 2009
[...] by rather serious events in Iran and subsequent stutter-steps by mainstream media in its coverage, David Letterman got into a dustup [...]