WANA (June 15) – Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, a prominent conservative candidate in Iran’s upcoming presidential election, has previously run for president three times in the 9th (2005), 11th (2013), and 12th (2017) elections. This time, he is making his fourth bid for the presidency.

 

Currently, Ghalibaf appears to enjoy significant public support. If the reformist movement fails to mobilize its base, Ghalibaf is likely to win and has a strong chance of success.

 

In his campaign statement at the start of the presidential election campaign, Ghalibaf not only showcased his full awareness of the country’s complex problems but also demonstrated a deep understanding of its diverse social, economic, and cultural capacities. He empathetically stated, “Our country, Iran, is wealthier than to have its people’s livelihood and welfare challenged.”

 

He didn’t just promise to build a responsible, transformative, meritocratic, people-centered, and revolutionary government, he assured, “What I promise, I will deliver.” This commitment is a testament to his trustworthiness and reliability.

A banner of presidential candidate Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf ​is seen on a street in Tehran, Iran June 13, 2024. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

 

In a special news interview on one of Iran’s TV networks, Ghalibaf appeared very confident, using language befitting a politician and appealing to both elites and the general public. He maintained eye contact with the audience, conveying a sense of value to them, and displayed strong body language. His speech was technical yet engaging.

 

During the interview, he addressed crucial issues such as inflation and its control, management, productivity and investment, health and healthcare, industry, housing, taxation, exchange rates, the presence of foreign nationals in Iran, and family matters—all of which are pressing concerns for the Iranian people.

 

One of the highlights of his speech was his scientific and logical defense of the late Iranian president’s government. He not only endorsed the credibility and comprehensiveness of the Seventh Development Plan but also reassured the audience that his future government would fully and unequivocally implement this plan, instilling a sense of security and stability in the audience.

 

Ghalibaf’s central message in the program was: “I have lived with the Seventh Development Plan. The budget and the plan do not belong only to governments; they are the people’s lives and must provide a predictable outlook for everyone, especially families.”

 

Ghalibaf appears to be a robust and precise politician with purposeful planning, who is action-oriented, knowledgeable about issues and public desires, and who uses appropriate language and high discipline. If the conservatives unite under one candidate, he seems to be one of the best choices for the Iranian presidency, and victory would likely belong to this party.

By WANA writer: R. Hejazi

 

A newspaper with a front page of the presidential candidates is seen at a newsstand in Tehran, Iran June 13, 2024. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)