Iran has initiated a five-day registration period for individuals interested in running in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for June 28. This election aims to fill the void left by the tragic helicopter crash earlier this month that claimed the life of the late President Ebrahim Raisi and seven others.
The political landscape in Iran is currently marked by heightened tensions with the United States, ongoing protests, and the aftermath of recent events, including the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022.
While the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, holds ultimate authority in state matters, past presidents have influenced Iran's stance towards the West, either fostering greater interaction or escalating hostility.
Prospective candidates, aged between 40 and 75 with a minimum of a master's degree, are eligible to register during this five-day period. However, all candidates must receive approval from Iran's Guardian Council, a 12-member body of clerics and jurists overseen by Khamenei. Notably, the Guardian Council has historically not accepted female candidates or individuals advocating for significant governance reforms.
Raisi, a protege of Khamenei, secured the presidency in 2021 after the disqualification of key challengers. His tenure witnessed the lowest voter turnout in Iran's history, reflecting public discontent with the regime and its policies.
The current acting president, Mohammad Mokhber, is a potential frontrunner, having engaged with Khamenei publicly. Other speculated candidates include former presidents Mohammad Ahmadinejad and Mohammad Khatami, although their eligibility remains uncertain.
The registration period will conclude on Tuesday, with the Guardian Council expected to finalize the list of candidates within ten days. Subsequently, a brief two-week campaign will precede the election in late June.
The incoming president will inherit a nation grappling with uranium enrichment, international scrutiny, and regional conflicts. Iran's involvement in arming Russia, launching attacks on Israel, and supporting proxy groups in the Middle East adds to the complexity of the situation.
Economically, Iran faces challenges due to a depreciating currency, triggering widespread protests. The recent unrest following Amini's tragic death underscores the ongoing tensions within the country.
Raisi's demise marks only the second instance of an Iranian president passing away in office, with the first being President Mohammad Ali Rajai in 1981 during the aftermath of the Islamic Revolution.
