It is likely that the role of spiritual leader will either disappear or be greatly reduced at the death of Khamene'i. The chances are good that they will. In the meantime internal debates do continue as the two government factions remain at loggerheads. Struggles over curtailment of repressive measures against dissidents, support of Islamic movements outside of Iran, and questions about relations with the United States continue as the political scene in Iran continues to evolve. Dissident Iranians, mostly outside of Iran, continue to protest with legitimacy human rights abuses within the country.
Time is on the side of the reformers, however.
The United States has been curiously passive- aggressive in the face of these changes. Despite feints at improving relations, American foreign policy toward Iran remains lodged in the vengeance politics of two decades ago. Iran continues to be demonized and despised in legislative halls. The foolish attempt to isolate Iran economically has totally failed, leaving our European allies shaking their heads in puzzlement at Washington's quirkiness. It is rarely a good idea to be blown around aimlessly by the winds of change when they come, but that is where America is heading with regard to Iran.