Iranian Parliament Initiates Impeachment of Economy Minister Hemmati

The Iranian Parliament began the impeachment proceedings against Economy Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati, accusing him of economic mismanagement. The session, chaired by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, included lawmakers and key officials. President Pezeshkian defended Hemmati’s actions, claiming collective decision-making on significant policies, while a vote will ultimately determine his fate.

The Iranian Parliament has initiated the impeachment process against Economy Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati. Chaired by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the session included 246 lawmakers and several prominent government officials, notably the ministers of industry, agriculture, foreign affairs, and the central bank governor.

The impeachment motion, endorsed by 91 members of Parliament on February 20, alleges mismanagement of economic policies by Hemmati. Following the parliamentary bylaws outlined in Article 224, the session has been allocated a total of five hours, featuring two hours for questioning lawmakers and three hours for Hemmati’s defense along with support from President Pezeshkian.

President Pezeshkian came to Hemmati’s defense, asserting that critical monetary and banking policies were made collaboratively by various government leaders, economic committees, and experts. He stated, “It is unfair to blame one individual for all shortcomings,” urging a united approach to tackle the ongoing economic challenges and the significant depreciation of the national currency against the U.S. dollar.

The session is expected to conclude with a decisive vote, determining the future of Minister Hemmati. The impeachment represents a significant moment within the ongoing economic discourse in Iran, meriting close attention as it unfolds.

The impeachment of Economy Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati by the Iranian Parliament highlights significant discontent regarding economic management within the government. With a robust defense from President Pezeshkian and a clear framework for the proceeding, the outcome remains uncertain as economic issues continue to challenge the nation. This situation underscores the complex dynamics between government officials and the parliament in addressing economic concerns.

Original Source: ifpnews.com