Since Khatami s election, a lively and vibrant pro-reform press has fueled the democratic movement, much to the chagrin of conservatives, who have used their considerable judicial powers to close down newspapers and jail editors. The new Parliament is expected to institutionalize some of the press freedoms permitted by the liberal Minister of Culture, Ataollah Mohajerani. The Parliament is also widely expected to move quickly to loosen some social controls, including a possible repeal of a ban on satellite dishes, and the introduction of legislation that would ensure greater social and political freedom. In addition, Parliament is expected to amend judicial and investment laws. Reformers consider the country s existing investment framework to be cumbersome, effectively discouraging foreign investment.
Questions abound about the meaning of the elections.
They want democracy. Other experts and observers wonder if the people understand the implications of civil society and democracy. We still have not worked out what we DO want. Sajjadi has a point. Two of the leading vote getters were the relatively unknown brothers of Khatami and of jailed reformist cleric Abdollah Nouri.