A number of young reformists met with opposition leader Mehdi Karroubi on the anniversary of the birth of Imam Hossein. In this meeting Karroubi stated: “During these gatherings, our discussions often revolve around the families of those imprisoned, those who were harmed, injured and martyred after the elections last year. It is lamentable and disheartening to speak of all the faceless and nameless individuals who have paid such a heavy price during this past year.”

As reported by IranGreenVoice, Karroubi pointed to the fact that no one expected the aftermath of the elections to filled with such overwhelmingly bitter incidents, adding: “Even now, one and a half years later, in August of 2010, no matter where you are you only hear discussion of those who have been imprisoned and those who have been martyred. It is a pity that an election in which the people were demanding the results of their vote turned into this. We witnessed what they [the ruling government] did to our citizens, whether they were well known individuals or ordinary citizens.”

Karroubi expressed regret regarding the extreme restrictions on the freedom of press and expression. While emphasizing the unfair and unjust election fraud that took place last year Karroubi continued: “Some claim that there has been fraud, while others insist the contrary. We however, continue to state that not only was there election fraud, but more importantly this fraud was massive and widespread. In other words, it was not just around one or two million votes, it was extensive and the results of the elections were pre-determined before the vote took place.”

Karroubi reiterated: “These gentlemen claim that the Guardian Council oversees this issue and will look into any claims of fraud and that we must pursue our complaints through legal channels. The problem however, lies in the fact this body [The Guardian Council] is unfortunately not impartial. It is clear to everyone that they have rejected all objectivity and as such are implicated in the betrayal of the people’s votes. If the Guardian Council is indeed impartial, then why do they not allow for a face to face meeting? I request that they set up a meeting at the location of their choice, a university, a mosque, at the IRIB, in which representatives of the current ruling government are also present, so that we can prove that not only has there been fraud, but that the results were rigged and pre-determined. It goes without saying that independent journalists would have to be present in order to publish the outcome of such a debate so that the discussion that takes place would be reflected in an honest and forthright manner.”

While expressing strong support for the seven reformists who recently filed charges against some of the high ranking members of the Revolutionary Guards, regarding election fraud, Karroubi stated: “A high ranking member in charge of security has made certain claims and allegations. These honorable gentlemen have in return written a letter officially announcing their complaint regarding these unproven claims. Do we resolve anything by arresting them and sending them back to jail? Isn’t sending them back to jail just a reaction? ”

While pointing to the restrictions imposed upon him Karroubi stated: “They won’t even allow for a few people to gather in one place. They forbid funeral services and fasting ceremonies. All comings and goings and visitations are controlled. If they would provide a permit and allow for us to organize a march, everything would become apparent. They [the ruling government] don’t even dare to allow for us to organize a gathering in a mosque as it will only further demonstrate the support and opinion of the people regarding the movement. They fear our presence amongst the people. They are fearful of our discussions with the public. They are fearful of the fact that we tell the truth. Despite this fear, due to today’s technological advances and social media outlets, they are no longer able to censure the news and prevent the truth from being told.”

While analyzing the statistics regarding the elections in the past 20 years Karroubi said: “I have witnessed several elections after the Imam’s death, including 5 parliamentary elections (4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th parliaments), six presidential elections (2 during the formative years, 2 during the reform period, and 2 during the current government’s rule, whose supposed ideals and service to Iran speaks for itself!). I have also witnessed, analyzed and been active in 3 election cycles in relation to the Assembly of Experts. It is my intent to demonstrate how 20 years after the death of Imam Khomeini, events were put in motion with the intent to suppress, leading us to our current unfortunate predicament.”

source: Enduring America