Maximum Participation in Elections: A Call from Ayatollah Khamenei

25 June 2024 11:07 PM

WANA News

WANA (June 25) – Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, delivered a speech today before the 14th presidential election, addressing thousands of people from various provinces.

Ayatollah Khamenei highlighted that maximum participation of the people and the election of the most qualified candidate would bring pride to the nation and the Islamic Republic. He outlined the essential qualities of an ideal candidate and urged Iranians to cast their votes. He emphasized, “Anyone who loves a strong and proud Iran and believes in supporting the system should participate in the elections.”

From Ayatollah Khamenei’s perspective, the essential characteristics of a presidential candidate are as follows:

Belief in the principles of the revolution.
Efficiency and tireless effort.
No reliance on foreigners and the United States, with faith in Iranian capabilities.
Strengthening international relations with all countries except one or two exceptions.

“We have always sought to establish relations with the entire world, with only a few exceptions. Notably, during administrations like that of the late martyr Raisi, who was firmly committed to our principles, the country’s international relations were also strengthened,” Ayatollah Khamenei stated.

The Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, made the remarks in the Imam Khomeini Hussainiyah on June 25, 2024, on the occasion of Eid al-Ghadir and on the eve of the presidential elections scheduled for Friday, June 28, 2024 / Leader office / WANA News Agency

He described independence from foreigners as a sign of courage and national independence, adding, “With these two elements, the Iranian nation will demonstrate its capability, character, and power, gaining more respect in the world.”

In his speech, Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized that a strong Iran has many supporters. He clarified his vision of a strong Iran: “Of course, strength does not only lie in possessing various missiles – though we have many useful and practical ones – but also in scientific, technical, economic, and political dimensions. A key aspect of this strength is active participation in the political arena and elections.”

In all recent elections, the Iranian leader has consistently emphasized maximum voter turnout. Some believe that low participation in this election would benefit conservative candidates, and thus, unlike in previous elections, the Supreme Leader may not stress participation as much. However, in his speech today, just three days before the voting, Ayatollah Khamenei insisted on calling everyone to participate in the elections and avoid laziness.

He noted that whenever voter turnout has been low, the enemies’ criticism against the Islamic Republic has intensified. Conversely, when voter turnout has been high, the critics’ voices have been silenced, and they cannot mock or celebrate. Therefore, one reason for insisting on high participation is to avoid giving joy to the enemies.

Recent polls conducted by various institutions show an upward trend in participation rates, but it has not yet reached the desired level for the Islamic Republic of Iran. Some people still show no interest in voting. Will the system convince these undecided or reluctant voters to participate in the election in the remaining three days actively?

By WANA writer