Iran President Defends His Record In The Face Of Rivals Criticism

17 May 2009

President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has defended his record and his administration’s economic legacy in the face of criticism by rival presidential candidates.

The Ahmadinejad administration has come under severe criticism in the run-up to the Iranian presidential election, which is being held on June 12.

Critics have said cabinet decisions, especially those made during the presidential trips to the provinces, were not based on careful study.

Ahmadinejad countered the criticisms, saying all cabinet decisions are based on expert knowledge.

“Those who raise questions about these (provincial) trips cannot put in question even one decision by the government because all these (decisions) are based on expertise,” the president said after a cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

He asked his critics to cite an example in which a decision by the government made during a provincial trip was not based on expert studies.

He said if his government has not responded to criticism, it does not mean that they do not have answers.

However, he vowed to answer his critics. “Of course, before the election, I will talk about these issues and say why such remarks are made and (why) the government is under incessant attack.”

Responding to critics who claim the administration pays money to people during provincial tours and that his approach is promoting “begging”, he said, “These statements are not new.”

The president said the provincial trips were a successful experience which has been welcomed worldwide.

The president also vowed to elaborate on the oil revenues and how they have been spent.

The difference over the money is due to differences in computations, the president noted.

“About the one billion dollars, explanations have been provided and proceedings have been carried out which will be announced soon.”

The State Audit Court has said that about 1.75 billion dollars of oil revenues has not been deposited in the treasury. However, the government has rejected this claim.

The president said his rivals are using the State Audit Court report as a pretext to make charges against his administration.

He added that his rivals are not presenting any new plans and are only criticizing the administration.

Presidential contender Mir-Hossein Mousavi has said he would announce how the oil revenues have been spent if he wins the presidential election.

EsinIslam.Com