On anniversary of Khomeini's demise, his grandson was not allowed to finish his speech
In today's ceremonies in Tehran commemorating the 21st anniversary of demise of Ayatollah Khomeini, the founder of Islamic revolution of Iran, the scheduled speech of his grandson, Hassan Khomeini, was interrupted early on by loud angry chants from pro-Ahmadinejad and pro-leader supporters. The grandson of Ayatollah Khomeini is known for his great manners, congenial and joyful personality, closeness to family, and moderate views. His support for the "green" reform movement angers the leader and the pro-government militants. In today's ceremony, Khomeini, after several requests for calm, stopped his speech short and lamented: "It is only some 20 years after Imam Khomeini's demise! ... It is sad and unfortunate. The majority abhors this small provocative group of troublemakers. I apologize to people."
Iranian leader Ayatollah Khamanei, and president Ahmadinejad, both gave speeches during the same ceremony and were not interrupted. The leader, hugged Khomeini's grandson but did not apologize for his supporters and militia not allowing Khomeini to speak.
In today's ceremony, Hashemi Rafsanjani, one of the founding fathers of the Islamic revolution, closest allies to Ayatollah Khomeini, and arch-rival to Ahmadinejad and Iranian leader, did not show up until after Ahmadinejad's speech was over. Also, Khomeini's grandson and Rafsanjani talked and sat next to each other, and apart from Ahmadinejad, a symbolism reflecting the chasm between the early supporters of Khomeini and the new government led by Ahmadinejad.