Iran's reformist President, Mr Mohammad Khatami, scored a crucial political victory yesterday when the conservative-led parliament approved his nominee for the post of Interior Minister.
By a vote of 177 to 67 with 22 abstentions, the Majlis, the Iranian parliament, confirmed the trusted presidential aide, Mr Abdolvahed Mousavi-Lari, to a post that is vital to implementing Mr Khatami's ambitious social and political reforms.
As Minister, Mr Mousavi-Lari will now have the power to appoint provincial administrators, oversee elections and approve political rallies.
The confirmation vote had been widely seen as a test of strength between Mr Khatami, elected on a platform of broad social and political change, and the conservative forces which dominate the parliament and other key levers of power. However, a second hurdle awaits Mr Khatami today, when Tehran's suspended mayor - a powerful political and organisational ally - receives the verdict in his corruption trial.
Mr Mousavi-Lari (44) has vowed to carry on the government's policies, including greater political pluralism and expanded social rights for women.
"I had two meetings yesterday with the factions in the Majlis, but I have not accepted any conditions," Mr Khatami told the parliament. "My only condition is observing the law and my style is dialogue and mutual understanding."
Mr Mohammad Reza Bahonar, a leader of the traditionalist majority in the Majlis, said: "Although the majority faction of the Majlis does not deem Mr Mousavi-Lari competent for the post, it has decided to avoid tension."