Rewritten Title:
MP Responds to Government Spokesperson on Saturday Workweek Debate – Key Concerns Raised
Rewritten Article:
Clash Over Workweek: MP Challenges Government’s Stance on Saturday Shutdown
Tehran – Ahmad Bigdeli, a member of the Iranian Parliament’s Social Commission, has responded to recent remarks by a government spokesperson regarding private sector demands to shift the official weekend from Thursday-Friday to Saturday-Sunday.
Bigdeli clarified that while a previous parliamentary bill had proposed making Saturdays a day off, the Guardian Council raised religious objections, leading to the cancellation of the proposal. He emphasized that legal and procedural issues can be resolved, but religious concerns require input from jurists.
Guardian Council’s Role and Current Workweek Policy
The MP noted that due to the Guardian Council’s objections, the discussion on Saturday closures was halted, leaving the current Thursday-Friday weekend in place. However, he revealed that the parliamentary commission had initially preferred delegating the decision to the government.
Bigdeli pointed out that while the Expediency Council insists on maintaining a 44-hour workweek, Parliament remains firm on its existing resolution. Meanwhile, the private sector, including chambers of commerce and banks—both state and private—advocates for Saturday closures to align with global financial markets.
Economic and International Considerations
Highlighting practical concerns, Bigdeli explained that most countries, including Muslim-majority nations, observe weekends on Saturday and Sunday. With international financial transactions halted on these days, Iranian businesses face operational challenges.
“Private sector representatives argue that a Saturday closure would facilitate smoother financial interactions with global partners,” he said. “If Thursday remains a holiday, it adds another day of disruption to cross-border transactions.”
Energy Shortages and Regional Flexibility
Addressing the government’s suggestion that provincial governors could decide on Saturday closures to manage energy shortages, Bigdeli questioned the rationale.
“If energy imbalances are the priority, why not adjust midweek closures instead?” he asked. “The decision should ultimately reflect public consensus and practical needs.”
Conclusion: Balancing Religious, Economic, and Public Interests
The debate underscores the challenge of reconciling religious guidelines, economic efficiency, and public opinion. As discussions continue, the focus remains on finding a solution that serves Iran’s national interests while maintaining harmony with global practices.
Source: ILNA
