In an order issued Saturday to Vice President Shalam Dhabili, the president said he had decided to fire him after considering a report on Dabili’s trip.
Given the many economic hardships facing the public, the luxury travel by officials, even if covered by personal income, is “unpreventive, unjustified, and contrary to the minimalist lifestyle expected of Iranian officials,” the president said.
“Our long-standing friendship and your valuable service as the Vice President of Congress will not prevent you from prioritizing integrity, justice and compliance with your commitments to the people,” Pezeschkian said.
Later that day, government spokesman Fateme Mohajelani said President Pezeshkian’s decision showed that he had no Brotherhood agreement with anyone and that his only criteria were validity, justice, integrity and the public interest.
rhm/