The cancellation of speeches by Reformist figures is nothing new in Iran. In past years, hard-line groups have disrupted numerous Reformist gatherings. But now, other organizations are blocking these events before they lead to potential disturbances.
The latest such incident is the cancellation of a speech by Deputy Parliament Speaker Ali Motahari. The outspoken speaker was due to deliver an address about the religious occasion of Arbaeen in Mashhad on Nov. 20, on the invitation by the Reformist Council of Khorasan Razavi province. He arrived in the northeastern city on the evening of Nov. 19, but his speech was called off the next morning, apparently by order of the provincial prosecutor-general.
