Nearly a year after Mehdi Ghorbani's appointment as the Deputy for Development and Infrastructure in the Anzali Free Zone, the performance of this deputy has once again highlighted the issue of preferential appointments and their impact on operational weaknesses in this free zone.
Uncertainty of Projects and Questionable Contracts
The uncertainty of ongoing projects and ambiguity in cost management and questionable contracts with contractors have directed criticism towards Ghorbani, who is the son of the former Friday Prayer Leader of Rasht. This has led many local activists to criticize the performance of this deputy.
Support from Influential Institutions
Local activists believe that Taati Moghadam, the controversial CEO of the Anzali Free Zone, who himself faces various corruption charges, has tried to secure the support of some influential institutions in the region by appointing Mehdi Ghorbani, the son of Ayatollah Zainolabedin Ghorbani, the former Friday Prayer Leader of Rasht. This appointment seems to have been made to strengthen relationships and garner specific support.
History of Financial Corruption and Its Impact
What has increased criticism around this appointment over the past year is the history of financial corruption in the Friday Prayer Leader's office under the activities of the Ghorbani family, which had already entangled Mehdi Ghorbani's name in some corruption cases and influence in introducing contractors for development projects. These histories have led to a decline in public trust in the performance of this deputy.
Managerial Challenges and Familial Influence
In the past year, Ghorbani's presence in the position of Deputy for Development has once again raised the issue of awarding contracts for development projects to various contractors. However, Taati Moghadam has not been able to deal with his deputy due to this individual's familial influence and connections. These challenges indicate the managerial complexities and the impact of familial relations on the executive performance of the Anzali Free Zone.
