Q&A with the Director of Voice of America - February 18, 2004
*Question from Mahmoud in Iran: Mr. Jackson, years before your interview with him in Paris, Khomeini wrote his infamous book, Velliate Faghih, which clearly outlined his intention to establish a theocracy. He had this idea long before his time in Paris. Therefore, whatever he said in Paris, including in your interview, was nothing but deception. What do you think?
*Response from David Jackson: In America, we have a saying: 'Watch what I do, not what I say.' As the world soon learned, many of Ayatollah Khomeini's actions contradicted what he promised. In a democracy, voters can remove a leader who is untrustworthy. It's no surprise that Ayatollah Khomeini feared democracy.
*Question from Aria in Iran: We are grateful for what the U.S. is doing for us, but if the United States truly wants to help, you need to have a strong television presence in Iran. I mean a 24-hour VOA channel for Iranians. Is there any hope for that?
*Response from David Jackson: Thank you for your kind words. A 24-hour channel from VOA seems unlikely, but we are constantly looking for ways to increase our programming for the people of Iran.
*Question from Ramin in Isfahan: Please ask Mr. Jackson, since he was in Iran during the revolution, who we should blame more for what has happened to our generation? Our parents? Our so-called intellectuals? The opportunistic clergy? Or the media?
*Response from David Jackson: Ramin, I believe that you and your generation should focus your energy on today and the future, and how you can guarantee democracy for your children and grandchildren. This can be much more productive than blaming someone for the past. The main point is that your future is in your own hands.