Presidential election in Iran: tensions, runoff and economic crisis

A new chapter for the Iran: What does the election mean for the country?

Tehran (dpa) – After an intense presidential election in Iran, the first partial results are expected on Saturday morning. This election was more than just a political act – it was marked by a deep economic crisis, Tensions with the West and growing dissatisfaction with the government and state power. After the tragic death of incumbent Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash in May, the election had become necessary due to early elections.

A power game between different political camps

More than 61 million voters had the opportunity to elect a new head of government on Friday. Six candidates had a chance of being elected to office. Among the candidates, there was a three-way battle between two hardliners, Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf and Said Jalili, and a reformer, Massoud Peseschkian. The political camps were sharply opposed to each other, with Peseschkian representing the field of reforms and change.

Observers suspect that a high voter turnout could play into Peseschkian's hands. Young Iranians in particular are hoping for political reforms and a departure from current politics. However, if none of the candidates achieves the required 50 percent of the votes, there will be a Runoff election – a moment that could have a decisive impact on Iran’s political future.

The importance of economic change

The current election campaign focused on one issue in particular: overcoming the serious economic crisis in the country. Iran is suffering from the consequences of international sanctions due to its nuclear program and urgently needs billions of euros in investment to get back on its feet. The political leadership is faced with the challenge of tackling both the country's economic and social problems in order to regain the trust of the population.

Since the 1979 revolution, a mix of republican and theocratic elements has shaped Iran's political system. Elections are formally free, but the influence of the Guardian Council on the selection of candidates and the limited powers of the president cast a shadow over democracy in the country. The future of Iran depends not only on the results of this election, but also on how the new government deals with the pressing challenges.

The outcome of these elections will not only change Iran's political landscape, but will also impact the country's relations with the rest of the world. It remains to be seen how the political dynamics in Iran will develop in the coming weeks and months.