However, critics argue that while his rhetoric promises modernization and reform, his policies remain constrained by loyalty to the system’s ideological core — limiting the potential for genuine political liberalization. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf’s long career — from IRGC commander to Tehran mayor, and then to Speaker of Parliament — encapsulates the evolution of the Islamic Republic’s second generation of leadership. He symbolizes a political model that fuses military discipline, revolutionary ideology, and bureaucratic management — a model that continues to define governance system in the 21st century.
Public spaces and cultural centers — Ghalibaf oversaw the creation of parks, pedestrian zones, museums, and concert halls aimed at revitalizing Tehran’s urban life. Technological modernization — he pushed for digital management systems and urban planning tools to streamline municipal services. Disaster management and emergency services — improvements to Tehran’s firefighting, waste management, and health response systems were introduced.
