Iran Holds Emergency Presidential Election Following President's Tragic Demise

IQNA – Iran has commenced a snap presidential election following the untimely passing of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter accident in the northwest region of the country.

The polls opened on Friday at 8 AM, with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei casting his vote in Tehran at the onset of the election day.

"I pray for the best days and years for our beloved nation from the Almighty God. Election day is a day of joy and happiness for us Iranians, especially when the election is for the selection of the president as the next few years of the country will be determined by this choice of the people," Ayatollah Khamenei said post-voting.

He further emphasized the importance of the electoral process, stating, "We recommend our dear people to take voting and participation in this important political test seriously and participate" in it.

He also highlighted the significance of public participation, asserting, "Durability, consistency, dignity and prestige of the Islamic Republic in the world depends on the presence of the people."

The Leader added, "In order to prove the health and sincerity of the Islamic Republic's system, the presence of the people is necessary and obligatory."

Voting began at 8:00 a.m. (04:30 GMT) and is scheduled to continue for 10 hours until 6:00 p.m., with provisions for an extension by the minister of interior if deemed necessary.

Over 61 million individuals are eligible to cast their ballots, as reported by the head of the election headquarters.

The presidential race features four candidates following the withdrawal of two contenders. Amirhossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi, aged 53, relinquished his candidacy, calling for unity among the candidates "so that the front of the revolution will be strengthened." Additionally, Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani withdrew from the race, mirroring his decision from the 2021 election in which Raisi emerged victorious.

Remaining in the electoral fray are former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, former health minister and lawmaker Massoud Pezeshkian, and ex-interior minister Mostafa Pourmohammadi.

The results are expected to be announced by Saturday noon.

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