BTN News: On Friday, Iran will see an important runoff election between a reformist and an ultraconservative candidate. This is after a historic low voter turnout in the first round, as many people did not believe in change through elections.
Special Vote After President Raisi’s Death
This runoff is happening because President Ebrahim Raisi died in a helicopter crash in May, leading to a special vote.
What Happened in the First Round of the Iranian Election
In the first round, only about 40% of voters turned up, the lowest in history. None of the four candidates got the 50% needed to win. Reformist Masoud Pezeshkian and hardliner Saeed Jalili got the most votes, so they will face each other in the July 5th runoff. Pezeshkian moved ahead because conservative votes were split.
Possible Increase in Voter Turnout for the Runoff Election
More people might vote in the second round. Some Iranians are afraid of Jalili’s strict policies and plan to vote for Pezeshkian. Polls show that nearly half of the conservative votes that went to Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf in the first round might go to Pezeshkian now.
Profiles of the Two Candidates in the Runoff Election
Experts think Pezeshkian can get more people to vote, especially those who did not vote in past elections. He promises to talk with the West to lift economic sanctions. Jalili wants to defeat sanctions by making strong ties with other countries and has a tougher stand on talks.
Iran’s Nuclear Policy Decision Still in the Hands of the Supreme Leader
The Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who allows talks with the U.S. to lift sanctions, decides on nuclear policies. These talks will likely go on no matter who wins the election.
Mixed Feelings About Voting Among Iranians
Many Iranians, who usually vote a lot, did not vote recently to protest against the government. They feel the government does not listen to their needs. They think voting will not change anything and call for an end to the clerical rule. Though Qalibaf told his supporters to vote for Jalili, many now support Pezeshkian, fearing Jalili’s future plans for Iran.
Past Election Experiences and Their Impact
In 2013, Iranians voted for reformist Hassan Rouhani, hoping for more openness and fewer social rules. But when former President Donald Trump left the nuclear deal in 2018 and brought back sanctions, hopes for change dropped. Raisi’s presidency further reduced chances for more social freedoms.
Concerns About Fairness in the Iranian Election
Human rights groups say the Guardian Council manipulates elections by limiting choices. They cut down a list of 80 candidates to just 6, leaving out seven women, a former president, and other officials.
Why This Election Matters for Iran’s Government
This election is key for the government to show stability after Raisi’s death, amidst protests and international issues. If Jalili wins, it would be a win for his strict group. The Supreme Leader controls foreign policy, but the president affects national policies and social issues like the hijab law for women.
Major Issues Facing Iran Today
Economic problems, U.S. sanctions, and women’s rights are the main concerns. Sanctions have weakened the economy, making people more frustrated with leaders who live well while telling citizens to live modestly.
Announcement of Runoff Election Results
The Interior Ministry announced the runoff right after the first round. Preliminary results are expected to be released on Saturday.
