NCRI – Freedom of expression does not exist in universities in Iran and those in universities endure an ongoing atmosphere of oppression, a regime MP has admitted.
Ali Motahari made the remarks after President Hassan Rouhani asked in a speech: “Why are the universities silent? Why should a bunch of illiterate individuals get paid for talking, while our academics are silent?”
The MP replied: “The security atmosphere in universities means faculties and students avoid expressing their views. They do not find it easy to speak out on the nuclear program and other issues.
“It is true that the government has changed, but the same atmosphere that was imposed on the universities after the 2009 election continues.”
Dr Mohammad Maleki, the 80-year-old former Chancellor of Tehran University, also responded to Rouhani’s speech with an open letter.
He said his habit of speaking freely had brought the wrath of Iranian regime’s Intelligence Ministry not only on himself, but also on his family, who had been imprisoned, harassed and persecuted for expressing their views.
