TEHRAN While three years have passed since the beginning of the reform movement, a precise and clear definition of reform has yet to be presented by the 2nd Khordad Front. What is reform? Last week, some elements of this front resorted to a plan for a referendum on reforms. With respect to the meaning of a referendum for reforms, what criteria it would entail, and whether such a referendum has any benefit for the society, our TEHRAN TIMES reporter conducted an interview with three representatives of the Majlis. Majlis Deputy Mohammad Shahi Arabloo said to our reporter, "The 2nd Khordad reforms are political and supported by slogans.
During the past three years, votes have been won by means of the word reform'. Now that we are approaching the presidential elections (in May 2001), by clarifying the meaning of reform', they want to create a new atmosphere to further the rule of the 2nd Khordad Front." He added, "If, with the political theme of reform', the 2nd Khordad movement is successful in the next election, it is certain that they will forget the genuine reforms which are needed by the people. Not only no reforms have taken place in the past three years, but rather the situation of the country has worsened.
If a referendum on reform is to be a true one, not a political one, it would be useful to ask the people and different strata of society what exactly is the meaning of reform' in our country." Majlis Deputy Mohammadreza Khabbaz said, "Since those who are opposed to reforms do not refrain from any attempt at creating obstacles in the way of reform, reforms must be evaluated through public opinion. Those who are opposed to reforms must nevertheless give reformists the right to present and attempt to implement their program and ideas.
Because the people have voted for the leader of the reforms (the president) and the reformist Parliament. The people's vote must be respected." "Those who are against reforms," he added, "are in the minority. And the minority must allow the majority to express its will; they must not be harsh toward reformists who have presented such a plan." Majlis Deputy Hassan Qashqavi said, "What is to be presented for a referendum? The debate over the meaning of reform' is still unclear; a precise definition of reform has yet to be presented.
" "If," he continued, "by the interpretation of the Supreme Leader, reforms' are a struggle against poverty, corruption and discrimination, this does not require a referendum. Every party lacks an economic program, which is the primary issue. Thus, this referendum on reform becomes a secondary issue. Not every referendum is advisable." "In our society the elements for democracy have yet to be formed.
There is as yet no definition for reforms', because we are not fully developed. First, these issues must be defined and clarified, then a referendum for reform be presented.
And it must be made clear what ought to be put to a referendum, and whether there is no way other than a referendum."