Iran faces a concerning trend of brain drain, where its intellectual and academic elites are increasingly seeking opportunities abroad. This phenomenon has significant repercussions, impacting not only the nation’s intellectual capital but also perpetuating a cycle of economic challenges. Against this backdrop, Alamolhoda’s accusations and perspectives on the matter gain prominence.
Ahmad Alamolhoda, the Friday Prayers Imam of Mashhad, delivered a speech on Student’s Day, accusing Iranian elites of emigrating to pursue financial prosperity. Speaking at a meeting with students, professors, and organizations of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Alamolhoda attributed the rising emigration of academic elites from Iran to their desire for opulent lifestyles, including driving luxurious cars and residing in expansive houses.
In his critique, Alamolhoda condemned those who, having benefited from the country’s resources and achieved elite status, turned a blind eye to the struggles of their fellow citizens in favor of personal gain in a neighboring nation. He argued that if the government aimed to support these elites financially, it should address their ‘selfish desires and limitless desire to acquire money’ without exacerbating class differences and depriving others of essential facilities.
Statistical data suggests that Iran’s political and social conditions, coupled with repression of elites, structural corruption, and a lack of hope for the future, contribute to the desire among academic communities and elites to migrate.
During the discussion, Alamolhoda disputed the notion that mandatory hijab laws were a primary cause of immigration, asserting that recent polls recognized hijab as a virtue by a significant portion of the Iranian population. This contradicts the acknowledgment by some government institutions that, in most polls, even those supportive of hijab, oppose mandatory hijab laws and government-imposed clothing regulations.
Alamolhoda distanced himself from decisions in the city, such as the ban on concerts for the past 18 years, claiming to be merely an unofficial figure offering advice.
While previously vocal about opposing music concerts in Mashhad, Alamolhoda now contends that false rumors circulated about his stance on concerts, asserting that officials decide based on the potential cultural and spiritual impact on the city.
Notably, allegations suggest that Alamolhoda wields influence over executive decisions, a claim strengthened by his familial connections to Ebrahim Raisi the regime’s president. Despite his earlier assertion of a modest income, evidence of Alamolhoda’s extensive assets and his children’s significant roles in economic structures have drawn media attention.
Alamolhoda claims that none of his children have an official position or economic activity. However, in 2017, after rumors surfaced regarding one of his children’s connections to the so-called Sultan of Coins case, the Ensaf News website revealed that Majid Alamolhoda, the youngest son of Alamolhoda, has been involved in various economic activities. Majid holds official positions such as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of Nomad Andish Arin Company, Executive Vice President of Central Capital Market Asset Management Company, Public Relations Advisor of Central Capital Market Asset Management Company, Cyberspace Secretary of Sana News Site, Administrative and Financial Director of Bayan Tehran Company, and Web Manager of the World Assembly of Islamic Religions.
Jamilasadat Alamolhoda, Ebrahim Raisi’s wife and one of Ahmad Alamolhoda’s children, is involved in various institutions and universities, playing a significant role in cultural management. Critics argue that Alamolhoda’s extensive involvement in executive affairs contributes to Khorasan’s perceived transformation into an autonomous state, positioning him as more than a Friday Prayers leader, but rather, as a de facto ruler of Khorasan.
