Iranian Opposition Figure Calls Provisional Government ‘Essential’ for Transition

Dr. Majid Sadeghpour, Political Director of the Organization of Iranian American Communities (OIAC), said the proposed Provisional Government announced by Maryam Rajavi, President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), represents what he described as a crucial step to prevent the return of authoritarian rule in Iran and to move the country toward democratic governance.

In an interview with CNN, Sadeghpour argued that recent developments inside Iran, including widespread unrest and confrontation with state authorities, reflect what he described as a growing effort by the Iranian population to reclaim political sovereignty.

According to Sadeghpour, the collapse of the leadership structure of the Velayat-e Faqih system, following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has created what he called a historic opening for political transformation. He said the establishment of a provisional government would help manage the transition and prevent a political vacuum that could destabilize the country.

Sadeghpour also warned against the re-emergence of previous forms of authoritarian rule, including the return of the monarchy associated with the former Shah. He said many opposition groups promote the slogan “No to the Shah, No to the Mullah,” reflecting the demand for a new political system based on democratic representation.

He further stated that, in his view, democratic change in Iran would come primarily through domestic political movements rather than foreign military intervention. Sadeghpour pointed to the role of what the Iranian opposition calls “Resistance Units,” affiliated with the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK), describing them as grassroots networks operating inside the country.

Sadeghpour also referenced demonstrations organized by supporters of the Iranian opposition in cities such as Washington and Paris, saying these gatherings illustrate international support for an alternative political framework.

He highlighted Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan, which outlines a future political model for Iran based on democracy, separation of religion and state, gender equality, human rights protections, and a non-nuclear policy.

According to Sadeghpour, the proposed provisional government would operate for a six-month transitional period, with the primary objective of preparing for elections to a constituent assembly that would draft a new constitution and oversee the formation of a democratic republic.

He concluded by saying that many Iranian opposition supporters believe the country is entering a new political phase in which organized opposition groups, along with Iranian communities abroad, are working toward what they view as the establishment of a democratic system representing the will of the Iranian people.