سید رضا موسوی

Oversight of political power is essential for good governance. This process, by comparing "What is" with "What should be," helps improve resource allocation and enhances the quality of public services. In the Islamic Republic of Iran, following the 1357 SH/1979 AD Revolution, the political system underwent a structural transformation in leadership accountability by establishing the institution of the Leader (alongside the three branches of government) and revoking the absolute immunity of the monarch. This article examines the concept, significance, and mechanisms of oversight over the Leader and related institutions in the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Oversight of the Leader has two primary objectives: increasing efficiency and strengthening political legitimacy. The Leader, as defined in the Constitution, is the most important political authority, elected by the Assembly of Experts (who are themselves elected by the people), and holds extensive duties, including determining the general policies of the system and commanding the armed forces. The Leader is equal to all other citizens before the law and can be dismissed by the Assembly of Experts if they lose the necessary qualifications. This article analyzes three main theories of legitimacy in the Islamic Republic of Iran: the Theory of Appointment (divine legitimacy), the Theory of Election (popular legitimacy), and the Divine-Popular Theory (a combination of both). Each of these theories explains leadership oversight in a different way. This analysis shows that despite differences in theoretical foundations, all perspectives emphasize the necessity of oversight over the Leader and related institutions, paving the way for increased efficiency and the stability of the system.