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Unpacking Iran's Power: Supreme Leader Vs. President

Eveline McDermott

Understanding the unique political landscape of Iran requires delving into its dual leadership structure, where the roles of the Supreme Leader and the President are distinct yet intertwined. Unlike many other nations where a single figure typically serves as both head of state and government, Iran operates under a complex system that blends democratic elements with theocratic oversight. This intricate arrangement often leads to questions about who truly holds the reins of power and what the specific responsibilities of each office entail. This article aims to clarify the fundamental difference between Supreme Leader and President in Iran, providing a comprehensive look at their respective authorities, functions, and influence within the Islamic Republic.

The recent passing of former President Ebrahim Raisi, and the upcoming elections, once again bring the spotlight onto Iran's political hierarchy. While Iranians are going to the polls to elect a new president, it is crucial to remember that the ultimate authority rests not with the elected president, but with the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This deep dive will explore the nuances of their positions, helping you grasp the true dynamics of power in one of the world's most unique political systems, and understand why the country has a sitting president and a supreme leader at the same time.

Table of Contents

A Unique Political Model: The Islamic Republic of Iran

Iran's governmental structure stands out globally due to its blend of republican and theocratic elements. Since its establishment in 1979 as Iran’s Islamic Republic, the nation has operated under a system where democratic institutions coexist with the ultimate authority of Islamic clerics, specifically from the Twelver Shiʿi sect. This unique design necessitates the simultaneous presence of both a sitting president and a Supreme Leader. The framework ensures that while the populace participates in electing officials like the president and parliament, the foundational principles of the Islamic Revolution and religious jurisprudence are upheld and enforced by a higher spiritual authority. This is the core reason why the country has a sitting president and a supreme leader at the same time, a setup that defines its political character and distinguishes it from most other nations.

This intricate system, known as Velayat-e Faqih (Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist), was conceptualized by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic. It posits that during the occultation of the Twelfth Imam, the most learned and pious Islamic jurist should govern the nation. This doctrine forms the bedrock of the Supreme Leader's authority, positioning him as the spiritual and political guardian of the state. The president, while a crucial figure in the day-to-day administration, operates within the parameters set by this overarching spiritual guardianship. Understanding this foundational principle is key to grasping the profound difference between Supreme Leader and President in Iran.

The Supreme Leader: The Ultimate Authority

When discussing the difference between Supreme Leader and President in Iran, it's paramount to understand that the Supreme Leader is unequivocally the most powerful figure in Iran. Often referred to as Rahbar ("leader"), this position was instituted as Rahbar in 1979 with the creation of Iran’s Islamic Republic. The Supreme Leader of Iran holds absolute power, overseeing virtually all functions of government either directly or indirectly. This individual serves as the head of state in Iran, a role that encompasses far more authority than typical heads of state in other political systems, making him the highest ranking political and religious authority.

Historical Context and Institution

The post of Supreme Leader was established immediately after the Iranian Revolution, to ensure the continuity of Islamic principles in governance and to serve as the ultimate arbiter of state affairs. The first Supreme Leader was Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, whose charisma and revolutionary stature solidified the position's immense power. Upon his death in 1989, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei assumed the role, a position he has held ever since. The institution of the Rahbar reflects the unique blend of religious and political authority that defines Iran's system, blending democratic elements with theocratic oversight from Islamic clerics of the Twelver Shiʿi sect. This ensures that the state remains guided by Islamic jurisprudence, with the Supreme Leader acting as the ultimate interpreter and guardian of these principles, effectively placing him above all other branches of government.

Absolute Power and Oversight

The Supreme Leader ranks above the President of Iran and personally appoints the heads of the military, the government, and the judiciary. This power extends to crucial state bodies and institutions, giving the Supreme Leader unparalleled influence over national policy and direction. For instance, the heads of the Revolutionary Guard Corps, the state media, and even significant economic foundations are appointed directly by the Supreme Leader. This fundamental distinction highlights that the Supreme Leader holds all the power, making decisions on key national issues, foreign policy, and security matters, often with little public scrutiny. For example, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s reclusive Supreme Leader, has remained a central character, often out of the public eye, even as conflicts like that between Israel and Iran have intensified, underscoring his ultimate authority and the fact that he is the person who ultimately decides on such critical matters.

Furthermore, the Supreme Leader has the final say on all major domestic and foreign policy decisions. While the President might present policies or engage in diplomatic efforts, these are always subject to the Supreme Leader's approval and must align with his strategic vision. This means that even the most significant national undertakings, from nuclear negotiations to economic reforms, are ultimately under the control of the Supreme Leader. Unlike the executive in other countries, the President of Iran does not have full control over the government, which is ultimately under the control of the Supreme Leader.

The President: Executive Functions Under Supervision

In stark contrast to the Supreme Leader, the President of Iran holds formal functions of the executive branch. While the president is the highest elected official, this position is subordinate to the Supreme Leader. The President is in charge of executing the laws and making sure policies are carried out, but always within the framework and under the ultimate guidance of the Supreme Leader. This makes the president more of a chief executive officer, implementing the vision and directives of the ultimate authority.

Constitutional Role and Subordination

According to Article 113 of the constitution, after the Supreme Leader, “the president shall be the highest state official responsible for the implementation of the constitution and, as the head.” This article clearly delineates the president's role as subordinate yet significant. The president is responsible for implementing the constitution and leading the executive branch, including the parliamentary and the presidential cabinet. This involves managing the day-to-day affairs of the government, proposing legislation to the Majlis (parliament), and representing Iran in international forums. However, this responsibility comes with significant checks and balances, primarily from the Supreme Leader and the various councils under his purview. The president's cabinet and their policies must align with the broader ideological and political direction set by the Supreme Leader.

Limitations on Executive Power

The President carries out the decrees and answers to the Supreme Leader of Iran, who functions as the country’s head of state. This means that even the most significant executive decisions must align with the Supreme Leader's vision and directives. The President is required to gain the Supreme Leader's official approval before being sworn in by the parliament. This pre-approval is not a mere formality; it is a critical gatekeeping mechanism that ensures the elected president is acceptable to the ruling establishment and, more specifically, to the Supreme Leader himself.

Furthermore, the Supreme Leader has the power to dismiss the elected president if he has either been impeached by parliament or found guilty of a constitutional violation by the Supreme Court. This power of dismissal underscores the president's subordinate position and the Supreme Leader's ultimate authority. Historically, there have been instances where presidents have faced challenges or even dismissals due to disagreements with the Supreme Leader or other powerful institutions aligned with him. This structural reality means that unlike the executive in other countries, the President of Iran does not have full control over the government, which is ultimately under the control of the Supreme Leader. The president's role is thus more akin to a chief administrator, executing policies that are ultimately formulated or approved by the Supreme Leader.

Key Differences: A Comparison Chart

To further elucidate the difference between Supreme Leader and President in Iran, here are the major distinctions between their roles, powers, and accountability. This "President of Iran versus Supreme Leader of Iran comparison chart" highlights the unique attributes that define their positions within the country's political system, showcasing why the country has a sitting president and a supreme leader at the same time.

  • **Attribute: Role & Authority**
    • **President of Iran:** Highest elected official (subordinate to Supreme Leader), Head of the Executive Branch, responsible for implementing the constitution and leading the government.
    • **Supreme Leader of Iran:** Highest ranking political and religious authority, Head of State, overseeing virtually all functions of government either directly or indirectly. The most powerful figure in Iran.
  • **Attribute: Power & Control**
    • **President of Iran:** Holds formal executive functions; in charge of executing laws and making sure policies are carried out. Does not have full control over the government.
    • **Supreme Leader of Iran:** Holds absolute power; ultimate decision-maker on major state affairs, military, judiciary, and foreign policy. Controls all branches of government.
  • **Attribute: Appointment/Selection**
    • **President of Iran:** Elected by popular vote for
President of Iran vs Supreme Leader of Iran: Difference and Comparison

President of Iran vs Supreme Leader of Iran: Difference and Comparison

President of Iran vs Supreme Leader of Iran: Difference and Comparison

President of Iran vs Supreme Leader of Iran: Difference and Comparison

What is the difference between the Supreme Leader of Iran and the

What is the difference between the Supreme Leader of Iran and the

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