By Vivek Dubey
CNBC-TV18.com
Published June 25, 2024
Iranians vote in a snap presidential election to replace Ebrahim Raisi, focusing on hardliners with anti-Western views.
The president manages daily affairs, while key decisions on Iran's nuclear program and foreign policy rest with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Six contenders, including five hardliners and one moderate, passed scrutiny by Iran's Guardian Council out of 80 initial candidates.
The Council, comprising 12 clerics appointed by Khamenei and jurists nominated by the judiciary chief, vets candidates for political and Islamic credentials.
Requirements include Iranian origin, citizenship, notable political or religious stature, and a flawless record of loyalty to the Islamic Republic.
Despite debates, the Guardian Council bars women from the presidential race, citing constitutional interpretation.
All Iranians over 18, amounting to over 61 million out of 85 million citizens, are eligible to vote in the election.
Votes are manually counted, potentially delaying final results for up to two days, although partial results may be available earlier.
If no candidate secures a majority, a run-off between the top two contenders occurs on the first Friday after initial results are declared.
Analysts suggest Khamenei seeks a president who aligns closely with his policies, ensuring steadfast loyalty and ideological coherence.
The election outcome will likely shape Iran's domestic policies and international relations, particularly concerning its nuclear stance and engagement with the West.