11.   The mass circulation daily Herald scoffed at allegations the government denounced homosexuals while at the same time protecting gays in the ruling party hierarchy.

12.   The rally came amid a power struggle between moderate and hard-line leaders inside the ruling clerical hierarchy.

13.   The report came amid a tug-of-war between moderate and hard-line leaders inside the ruling clerical hierarchy.

14.   The report came amid a tug-of-war between moderate and radical leaders inside the ruling clerical hierarchy.

15.   The rally also came amid a power struggle between moderate and hard-line leaders inside the ruling clerical hierarchy.

16.   They are believed to enjoy the backing of powerful conservatives in the ruling hierarchy.