Iranian MPs oppose Rafsanjani’s presidential bid

Over 100 Iranian MPs are opposed to ex-President Ali Akbar Hashimi Rafsanjani’s plans to run for president and urged the Council of Guardians to dismiss the candidature, Trend reports.

The MPs are protesting against Rafsanjani’s statement that Iran would support Arab countries in a war against Israel. They also consider his role in organizing protests after the presidential polls in 2009 unclear.

Legislators say that his statements contradicts ideals of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Rafsanjani was the fourth president of Iran in 1989-1997. He was a member of the Council of Experts. He used to be Speaker of Parliament. He is currently chairing the Expediency Council. Oil extraction during his presidency increased from 2.4 million barrels to 4 million daily, GDP increased by 15%, inflation totaled 25% and reached 35% at the end of presidency.