By D. W. G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
A Reformist Victory Amid Political Turmoil
In a closely contested run off, Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist candidate, has emerged victorious in Iran's presidential election, defeating his hardline conservative rival, Saeed Jalili. Dr. Pezeshkian secured 53.3% of the more than 30 million votes counted, while Mr. Jalili garnered 44.3%. The run off was necessitated by the inconclusive first round of voting on June 28, which saw a historically low voter turnout of 40%.
This election was called following the tragic death of Iran’s former president, Ebrahim Raisi, in a helicopter crash in May. The crash, which also claimed the lives of seven others, left a leadership void at a critical time. Despite the challenges, the second round of voting saw a higher turnout of 50%, although it still reflected significant public discontent and electoral fatigue.
Dr. Pezeshkian, a 71 year old heart surgeon and parliament member, has gained recognition for his critical stance on Iran’s morality police and his promise of "unity and cohesion." He aims to end Iran's "isolation" from the world and advocates for “constructive negotiations” with Western powers to renew the 2015 nuclear deal. This position starkly contrasts with Mr. Jalili's hardline anti Western stance and opposition to the nuclear deal, which he believes compromises Iran’s sovereignty.
Domestic and International Reactions
The election results have sparked celebrations among Dr. Pezeshkian's supporters, with videos showing young people dancing and waving his campaign’s green flags in cities like Tehran. Leaders from China, India, and Russia have also extended their congratulations to Iran's new president.
However, the path to the presidency was not without controversy. Both candidates had to pass the Guardian Council’s stringent vetting process, which saw 74 other candidates, including several women, disqualified. This council, composed of 12 clerics and jurists, wields significant power and has faced criticism for excluding candidates deemed insufficiently loyal to the regime.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has downplayed the implications of the low voter turnout, rejecting claims that it signifies a rejection of his rule. He acknowledged the existence of dissent within the country but maintained that non voters are not necessarily opposed to the establishment.
Dr. Pezeshkian's election represents a potential shift in Iran's political landscape, with hopes for reducing international tensions and fostering domestic unity. His victory reflects the aspirations of many Iranians who seek reform and a departure from the hardline policies that have characterized the country’s recent history.
