December 29, 2017
The Majlis is reportedly discussing—out of public view—a 70 percent jump in the salary of deputies from $20,000 a year to $34,000.
A number of deputies have denied there is any such plan to boost salaries, but Majlis Deputy Speaker Masud Pezeshkian announced December 18, “The issue of a 70 percent salary boost has been discussed, but no action has yet been taken.”
Pezeshkian, a Reformist, telegraphed, however, that he thought a salary hike was justified. “I state clearly that the salary of a Majlis deputy is less than that received by their drivers—and I can prove that.” This comment indicated that deputies get chauffeurs and suggested that much of their income may come as a result of such fringe benefits.
Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani was asked about the issue. He said, “They say that the salary of Majlis deputies has been increased by 70 percent. That is 100 percent untrue.”
