Mojtaba Khamenei Ousts Iran's Judiciary Chief in Power Reshuffle

After five years in office, Mojtaba Khamenei has decided not to extend the term of Iran's Judiciary Chief, Ebrahim Raisi's predecessor Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejei, breaking a four-decade tradition of two consecutive five-year terms. This decision, reported by Iran International on Wednesday, is part of a broader power consolidation effort by Mojtaba Khamenei, who is replacing key figures in central government institutions with loyalists aligned with his worldview in preparation for future leadership control.

The move follows internal criticism from conservative right-wing factions accusing Ejei of betraying the Supreme Leader's line, particularly due to his vote supporting a memorandum of understanding with the United States, which contradicted Mojtaba Khamenei's official stance. Additionally, recent indirect messages from the new leader demanding the implementation of previously unmet directives were interpreted as dissatisfaction with the judiciary's performance under Ejei.

Ejei attempted to counter the criticism by sending a flattering letter pledging full obedience to the leader, but media attacks from various factions intensified. Supporters of Ejei highlight his achievements, including the adoption of email technologies, shortening legal proceedings, and fighting internal corruption.

However, human rights activists and organizations depict a starkly different reality, viewing Ejei not as a reformer but as a key figure in the Islamic Republic's repressive apparatus with a strong security and intelligence background. Under his tenure, the judiciary continued to serve as an enforcement arm of security forces, issuing harsh sentences against protesters, journalists, and political activists.

Critics warn that without deep structural reforms ensuring judicial independence, ending forced confessions, and guaranteeing fair trials, replacing one individual will not change Iran's legal and human rights situation.