Iran’s theocratic rulers have openly acknowledged that record low voter turnout of 40 per cent in the first round of the presidential election casts doubt on their legitimacy. However, the tables turned in the second round run-off, where the turnout increased by a quarter. For the first time in two decades, a reformist candidate, Masoud Pezeshkian, won a powerful majority. In the run-off, Pezeshkian, a former health minister, triumphed over hardliner Saeed Jalili with 16.3 million votes as opposed to Jalili’s 13.5 million.
Pezeshkian’s success was unexpected to many as he managed to endure the Guardian Council’s vigorous elimination of liberal candidates. Throughout his campaign, he pledged to honour the authority held by supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Nevertheless, his call for improved relations with the West, notably regarding the country’s sanctioned nuclear programme, his promise for economic reform, as well as slackened enforcement of hijab laws, all helped him amass considerable support among the youth, urban dwellers, and the middle class.
Even as Khamenei, aged 85, continues to exert influence over domestic and foreign policies with conservatives still holding parliamentary control, street celebrations following the elections show amplified hopes for reform. It’s seen as an indication that democratic momentum is beginning to surge through theocratic Iran. As an Azeri in support of ethnic minority rights, Pezeshkian is also anticipated to participate in succession discussions when the time comes for Khamenei to step down.
Observers anticipate a shift towards a more appeasing governance style. The newly elected president, in charge of key state institutions, the appointment of ministers, and economic management, has conceded that the primary challenges of rejuvenating the crumbling economy and rebuilding Iran’s global reputation are intertwined. To attain his goal of six per cent growth, Pezeshkian assured voters that considerable new investment is needed, a substantial portion of which must be acquired from overseas. The extent of the flexibility he is granted by the religious leaders will be critical.