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The snap presidential election in Iran is likely heading for a run-off next week as reformist-backed Masoud Pezeshkian and hardliner Saeed Jalili emerged as the top contenders but failed to secure a majority. Pezeshkian is currently leading with 8.3 million votes, followed by Jalili with more than 7.1 million votes. With conservative candidates Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Mostafa Pourmohammadi out of the race, the focus is now on the two leading candidates.
The election comes after the tragic death of former President Ebrahim Raisi and others in a helicopter crash, within the constitutionally mandated period to select a new president. Voter turnout has been low in recent years, with the last presidential election only seeing a 48.8% turnout. Many Iranians are disillusioned following recent protests and economic challenges, including high inflation and US sanctions.
Pezeshkian has promised to lift sanctions by reviving the 2015 nuclear deal and bridging the gap between the people and the establishment. Jalili, on the other hand, aims to bring down inflation and boost economic growth, while fighting corruption and mismanagement. The candidates represent opposing camps, with Pezeshkian backed by moderates and reformists, while Jalili emphasizes a hardline stance.
The run-off election on July 5 will present Iranians with a clear choice between the two candidates. Jalili has criticized Pezeshkian for compromising Iran’s nuclear program in the 2015 nuclear deal, while Pezeshkian’s supporters believe his presidency would bring improvements without compromising national interests. The outcome of the election is highly anticipated, with live updates available on the results.
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Photo credit www.aljazeera.com
