Iran’s Supreme Leader’s office has issued a decree extending the term of Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei as head of the country’s judiciary for another period in office. The decree, attributed to Mojtaba Khamenei, states: “In appreciation of your valuable and sincere efforts, and in accordance with Article 157 of the Constitution, I appoint you as head of the judiciary.” Shortly after the announcement, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian congratulated Ejei on his reappointment, describing it as a sign of the Supreme Leader’s confidence in his commitment, experience, and services. Ejei was first appointed as head of the judiciary on 1 July 2021, and his initial five-year term has recently concluded. He is widely known for his hardline approach to protests and judicial cases in Iran. Reports indicate that he has repeatedly instructed prosecutors to accelerate proceedings against detainees, particularly those accused of “cooperation with enemies,” “espionage,” or related security charges. Human rights organisations have also reported an increase in executions during his tenure, as well as widespread confiscation of assets belonging to government critics.
