Rewritten Title: Parliamentary Debate Ignites Over Public Sector Reform and Economic Appointments
Article:
A fiery debate in Iran’s Islamic Consultative Assembly has brought significant government policies into sharp focus, with a lawmaker launching a multi-pronged critique concerning public sector reform, currency stability, and key economic appointments.
The Battle Over Contract Worker Reform
At the heart of the parliamentary session was the long-pending plan to reorganize the state’s contract workforce. MP Amirhossein Sabetti used his speaking time to challenge the opposition to the plan, which he attributed to certain members of the Expediency Discernment Council.
Sabetti argued that the government’s financial obligation is not the core issue. “The government does pay this money,” he stated, “but not to the contract workers. Instead, it goes to the pockets of intermediaries and contracting companies.” He questioned the lobbying power of these intermediaries, suggesting it has repeatedly blocked the reform.
Defending the necessity of the plan, Sabetti highlighted that many of these workers have been on annual contracts for over two decades, proving their essential role. “If they were not needed, their contracts would not be renewed,” he asserted, framing the current system as one that financially benefits middlemen at the expense of both the workers and the state treasury.
Broader Economic Concerns Raised
The lawmaker’s critique extended beyond labor reform to encompass the country’s economic management. He linked a period of currency market stability directly to the political pressure of a ministerial impeachment, suggesting that the government failed to use that respite to implement lasting economic reforms. “Now,” he claimed, “the exchange rate is rising day by day due to a lack of control and supervision.”
Sabetti also directed pointed questions at several high-ranking officials. He called on the Central Bank governor to either use his legal authority to deal with违规 private banks or resign, accusing him of a disconnect between private assurances and public action.
Questions Over Ministerial Appointments
Further intensifying his address, the MP turned to the Minister of Oil, questioning recent appointments within the national petrochemical company. He cited the case of an individual appointed to a board position who allegedly had no prior experience in the field, implying that the selection was based on familial connections rather than merit.
This series of critiques from the parliamentary floor underscores ongoing internal discussions about the efficiency of public administration, the stability of the national economy, and the principles of governance in key sectors. The remarks call for clear stances from government representatives on these pressing issues.