Interviewer: A reporter of the Swiss Television
Question: [The Shah has announced that he will soon leave the country and a royal council will be formed. In this case, will you go back to the country?]
Answer: My return to Iran depends on my assurance that my presence in Iran is more useful for the movement than here. Whenever I become sure, I will go. But the leaving of the Shah alone will not materialize our goal; we consider the monarchical regime illegal and the people have dismissed the Shah through their referendum. Therefore the regime must give up its usurped place so that the people set up the Islamic government, God willing.
Q: [According to some reports we have received, you have had some contacts with the Americans- with an American delegation- and probably given them a list of the people who may rule in Iran in the future. Is it correct?]
A: No. We have never contacted the Americans.
Q: [How do you see the Bakhtiyar government that you have said is usurper and illegitimate?]
A: The Bakhtiyar government depends on the Shah whose reign is illegitimate and the people have dismissed him through their referendum. On the other hand it is dependent on the two Houses of the Parliament, which are not legitimate, for they do not sprout from the people's determination.
Q: [What will be your future policy towards the religious minorities?]
A: The religious minorities will be free in the future; will live in prosperity in Iran, and we will treat them in full fairness and in accordance to the law. They are our Iranian brothers. They are also upset with the Shah and his clique.