ALWAGHT- In his Wednesday remarks, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, urged Iranians who cherish Islam, the Islamic Republic, and Iran's progress to show their support by voting in the upcoming presidential runoff election.
Ayatollah Khamenei highlighted the critical importance of the presidential election's second phase, asserting that those who did not vote in the first round should not be seen as opposing the system. He emphasized that the people are the foundation of the Islamic Republic, and a higher voter turnout will help the country achieve its goals.
The snap presidential election was scheduled following the martyrdom of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash on May 19. With no candidate winning a majority in the first round on June 28, a runoff will be held on July 5 between Saeed Jalili and Masoud Pezeshkian.
Ayatollah Khamenei's appeal for broad participation in the runoff underscores the democratic process's importance in Iran. He stated, "I have often said that people's participation in elections supports the Islamic Republic of Iran and brings it pride. Greater participation will enable the Islamic Republic to fulfill its promises both domestically and in terms of strategic national goals, presenting a significant opportunity for the country."