Some of the country's most powerful political and clerical leaders had grown tired of the Mahdi Army as well.

Normally, the oath must be taken in person, but clerical leaders decided that there was no time for that.

On another level, however, it is a stroke that could help the pragmatic clerical leader accomplish three objectives.

Supporters of the clerical leader's policies continued to sweep the polls today, as the Government announced more results from the provinces.

Furthermore, the non-clerical figures were mostly acting on behalf of their senior clerical leaders.

Questions about the arms purchases continue to arise in media interviews with Iran's clerical leaders.

As Dr. Albright noted, conservative clerical leaders still exercise great power.

By trying to thwart the will of the electorate, clerical leaders risk future discontent.

Iran's powerful clerical leaders are deeply concerned about which clerics emerge as the dominant figures in those cities, American officials say.

Mr. Sistani was born in Iran and has strong links to its clerical leaders.