Mohsen Rezaei, Abdolnasser Hemmati, and Amir Hossein Qazizadeh Hashemi who were competing with Raeisi in the Friday presidential elections were among the first to congratulate the president-elect who won with a landslide victory.

From a total of 28,933,004 ballots counted, Raeisi succeeded to win 17,926,345 votes, the Interior Ministry election headquarters said. The rate of participation was announced to be 48.8 percent. Rezaei, Hemmati, and Qazizadeh also won 3,412,712 votes, 2,427,201 votes, and 999,718 votes, respectively.

Rezaei congratulated Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for people’s participation in the elections.

Also, in part of his congratulatory message Hemmati hoped that Raeisi would bring prosperity and better livelihood for the “great Iranian nation”.

In his message, Qazizadeh also congratulated Raeisi. “While supporting the votes of the people, I congratulate Hazrat Ayatollah Seyyed Ebrahim Raeisi as the people’s president-elect,” Qazizadeh stated.

Qazizadeh also wished success for Raeisi for being honored to serve the “great Iranian nation”.

He also congratulated the Leader for people’s “epic” participation in the polls.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Qazizadeh said Ayatollah Khamenei “made the path clear to all through his guiding remarks on the eve of the elections.”

In televised remarks, sitting President Hassan Rouhani also congratulated the president-elect. Rouhani and Parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf also met separately with the president-elect.

Also on Saturday morning, Qalibaf praised the people’s massive participation in the elections despite complaints about incompetency in managerial system.

In a post on his Twitter account, Qalibaf said he congratulates the holding of “national election celebrations as well as epic participation” of the people to the Leader and the “noble people of Iran”.

Expediency Council chairman Ayatollah Sadegh Amoli Larijani also congratulated the president-elect. Ali Larijani, senior advisor to the Leader, also congratulated Raeisi.

Army Commander Abdolrahim Mousavi also issued a message congratulating “the creation of the glorious epic of the great nation of Islamic Iran and the election of Raeisi as the 8th president of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

Seyyed Hassan Khomeini also congratulated Raeisi over his landslide victory.

“Congratulations to you on gaining the trust of a large part of the people and winning the title of president of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Hassan Khomeini said in his message.

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Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, President Hassan Rouhani, First Vice President Es’haq Jahangiri, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, senior advisor to the Leader Ali Larijani, and Guardian Council Secretary Ahmad Jannati were among the prominent figures who cast their votes.

President Rouhani visited the election headquarters set up at the Ministry of Interior to get firsthand information about the voting procedure. In the visit, the president was briefed by Abdolreza Rahmani-Fazli, the interior minister.

Rouhani also cast his vote at the election headquarters.

Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, the parliament speaker, also cast his vote at the Abouzar district in Tehran. He also responded to various questions posed by reporters where he attended to vote.

He called elections are the result of “religious democracy” in Iran, saying that Iranians were able to preserve the republic and the Islamic system through their efforts.

“Elections are a great opportunity for the people to change the face of the country’s management in the face of their criticism. Therefore, it is their duty to make a careful and informed choice and study in this regard, because they want to hand over the administration of the country to their representatives at national and local levels for 4 years,” he remarked.

Qalibaf stated that hopefully the future administration will be able to work with the other two branches of government (Parliament and Judiciary) in a way that will satisfy Iranians with the priority of solving economic problems.

The top lawmaker urged people to participate in the election if they really seek a resolution of the problems.

“The solution is not to get angry with the ballot boxes, but to be present at the ballot boxes. And with a good choice and follow-up, let’s join hands so that we can make a change in the field of management,” he stated.

Seyyed Abbas Araqchi, head of the Iranian delegate at the Vienna nuclear deal talks, cast his vote at the Iranian embassy in Austria.

He expressed hope that Iranians will see a widespread participation of the people at the ballot box.

“This will certainly increase the authority, strength and power of the Islamic Republic of Iran. In the field of foreign policy, I see firsthand that when people are behind the system and show themselves in various fields and participate in elections, we are present in the international arena with more strength, authority and dignity,” he added, hoping that the outcome of the election will bring dignity to the Iranian people and would lead to interaction with the world’s countries.

Ali Akbar Velayati, the senior advisor to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, also cast his vote.  The former foreign minister said that in such a situation where Iran “has climbed the ladder of power one after another, today, not only in 40 years but also in the last 400 years, Iran has been in the most powerful position.”

“It is very important that we maintain power. To maintain power, as we relied on the power of the people, the leadership of Imam Khomeini and the Leader, we need the same now,” he added.

Velayati said that Iranians votes are not considered as an ordinary one.

“Today, our vote is the most important vote and it is a religious duty,” he noted.

Saeed Jalili, who withdrew from the presidential race on Wednesday afternoon, cast his vote at Fatemi Mosque at Khazaneh district in south Tehran. He stated that the first step for the country to “leap” is the “presence of the republic” at the ballot box.

“High participation of the people will be the drivers of progress and leap. Today is a great day for the Iranian nation to rise high for the ‘leap of Iran’. The more glorious the vote, the higher the turnout, and consequently, the longer the leap and the more beautiful the outlook.”

Jalili stated that every vote of the people is “a precision-guided missile that will target the threats, sanctions and malice of the enemies.” He added that each vote will increase the power and lead to further development of the country.

Mohsen Rezaei, the presidential contender who cast his vote in the afternoon, stated that the presence of the people in the elections will strengthen Iran’s power and security, and the people vote to build the future of the country.

Admiral Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council who cast his vote in the afternoon, said that whatever step is taken as a symbol of democracy to increase the participation of people in the elections, is a step towards increasing the authority, security and legitimacy of the Islamic system and a necessary condition for progress and increasing the international position of Iran.

Shamkhani said that he believes the true winner of the election is the people.

“Any result in the upcoming elections is respectable because it is the opinion of the majority of participants in the elections, but more importantly, is the principle of the presence and participation of the people,” he added.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who had attended the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, cast his vote at the Iranian Consulate in Turkey. He apologized for all the shortcomings the incumbent administration may have had.

“The right to self-determination is one of the most important rights that our people gained with the Revolution, and the republic is one of the most important achievements of the Islamic Revolution,” Zarif stated.

He added that there may be grievances due to problems and shortcomings, but he believes that the people need to participate in determining their own destiny.

He said that according to him the ballot box is the best place to determine the fate and future of children and the path of the country.

“I hope that all our compatriots will take part in this work with interest. Our people have always proved the mistakes of political forecasters, and this time it will again be proven. We have tried to have a polling station wherever possible and to enable Iranians abroad to participate in the elections and determine their own destiny and future with their active participation, because this is the right of the people,” he added.

Criticizing the Canadian government for lack of cooperation with Iran to hold the presidential election despite efforts made by the Foreign Ministry, Zarif said that the Canadian government must be responsible for its actions.

Iranian First Vice President Es’haq Jahangiri also cast his ballots at the election headquarters. He then responded to various questions from reporters.

He said that according to the reports of the Ministry of Interior, the elections are held in full security and peace and in accordance with the health protocols and that the people are present at the ballot boxes as usual.

Jahangiri also expressed hope that the people would elect a candidate who could resolve domestic problems and handle international challenges.

Presidential candidate Abdolnasser Hemmati, who cast his vote at Hosseiniyah Ershad in Tehran, said, “If I do not get elected, I will still serve the people and follow my slogans.

Whoever becomes president must bring the development and prosperity of the country to a higher place.”

Hamid Baeidi Nejad, Iran’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, said on his Instagram account, “At a time when we are on the verge of complete defeat of the sanctions policy with the fierce resistance of the whole nation, it is necessary to ensure the country’s interaction and development by attending the ballot boxes to determine the fate of the country and ensure the future of the youth. Our dear people have complaints about the rightful and unfulfilled expectations, but the grievances with the ballot boxes will only worsen the situation. Today it is up to us to determine our destiny, but tomorrow is definitely too late.”

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They have also invited the great nation of Iran to participate in the presidential elections.

The text of the letter is as follows:

“In the Name of God

To the Leader of the holy establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran,

As you are aware, the great nation of Iran is once again on the threshold of a fateful test in the eyes of its friends and enemies.

Elections are a manifestation of power and a clear sign of Islamism and the republic of the system, and the intelligent people of Islamic Iran will add another golden page to their list of honors on 18 June. God willing, and with maximum presence in the upcoming election scene, the people will renew allegiance with Imam Khomeini and martyrs.

Undoubtedly, attention to the precious testaments of the late founder of the Islamic system and the enlightening wills of you as a shining torch to lead the society, can pave the way for maximum presence and defeat of the enemy and the right choice for this noble nation and a brighter future for the appreciative people of Islamic Iran.

Explaining the conspiracies of the enemies, the wise and prudent Leader has repeatedly emphasized the maximum presence of the people at the ballot box and expressed valuable indicators and criteria for the presidential candidates and invited them to convince the people and be honest in expressing their capabilities and election slogans. You have tried to inform the people about their legal rights and religious and national duty, and it is hoped that by relying on God’s grace and benefiting from these thoughtful and effective and memorable instructions from you and the presence of the grateful people, you will cause the despair for the sworn enemies. Islam and the holy system of the Islamic Republic of Iran can inspire happiness in the hearts of the lovers of the Islamic Revolution around the world.

In this regard, we, a group of Friday prayer leaders and Sunni scholars of the country as flag bearers of honor and pride and preachers of unity and integrity in Islamic Iran, while renewing allegiance with the lofty ideals of the late Imam and martyrs and responding to the orders of the wise Leader, inform you that the people of Iran, regardless of their ethnicity or religion, with a correct understanding of the sensitive situation in the world, especially the ongoing seditions of global imperialism and international Zionism in the region, believe voting is the inalienable right and duty of every Iranian to participate in determining the destiny and protection of their homeland and national values. They will never let the malevolent ones to disappoint the people by sowing differences and divisions, and the enemies cannot plunder the valuable treasures of the nation, which is the result of the blood of thousands of martyrs.

May the problems of the appreciative and loyal people be solved by electing a valuable popular and serving government, and with the increasing authority of our Islamic country, the ground for the formation of a new Islamic civilization be provided, God willing.”

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On the sidelines of the visit, he said that the various departments do not fulfill their duties towards the healthcare system, and the burden will be on the shoulders of the medical staff. He added that the health reform plan implemented by the Rouhani administration was full of problems.

“The issue of health is not only the responsibility of the Ministry of Health, and all agencies must play their role in this regard. If other bodies such as the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Industry, Education, State-run TV, and other agencies do not perform their duties in the healthcare system properly, the burden of the health system will rely heavily on the medical staff,” he stated.

Referring to his meetings with health officials in the past eight years, Jalili added that he believes that special attention should be paid to the health sector.

“The important role of the president is to mobilize other organizations in performing their duties towards the health system so that all the challenges are not borne by the medical staff,” he remarked.

Jalili criticized the contracts of the healthcare workers, stating that it is not acceptable for several people to do the same job in a nursing station or a hospital, but their salaries, benefits, leaves, etc. are different.

“The type of employment contracts in the medical staff is flawed and needs to be corrected,” he added.

The presidential contender stated that the medical staff created an epic during the coronavirus pandemic and showed that they are willing to sacrifice their lives to help and save the people, and Iran will always honor the memory of “the martyrs of health.”

Jalili stressed, “People who work in the healthcare system are not robots and should not be expected to solve problems in the treatment sector alone.”

This is not even so in the military, and if a person watches over a military base for 4 hours, he rests for 2 hours and this should be so in the healthcare system, he stated. Not all the pressure should be on the medical staff, he added.

“The government should have a plan to improve the health sector, and it should not just look to increase the maximum budget for this sector. The health network project was one of the most successful projects after the revolution, which was carried out in the health sector and had very good effects,” he remarked.

Jalili stated that over the past eight years, he has held numerous meetings to review the health reform plan, and “in fairness, this plan was full of flaws.”

He added, “If the plan is not comprehensive and fair and does not take into account all the dimensions, perhaps only a part of the health system will be satisfied with it. We must have a plan in this field so that everyone feels satisfied and has the motivation to participate seriously and actively in it, and the output is to improve the health system.”

The presidential contender also said, “We have many amenities and tourism facilities that are available to the public sector and should be distributed fairly so that everyone can use them.”

He believes that about two-thirds of the public sector’s housing facilities are unused, and only one-third is used.

“Meanwhile, the medical staff of public hospitals complain about the lack of access to these facilities,” he remarked, referring to his plan to send people to public housing amenities for free if elected president.

The presidential election will be held on June 18.

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He promised in the final debate held on Saturday that he will publish his economic revival plan soon to let people know he is determined to “perform great surgeries” on the Iranian economy.

He soon acted on his promise publishing the first volumes of his plans, which is focused on economic reform.

Rezaei has paid a great deal of attention to economy in all his remarks and broadcasts, with particular attention on the youth, housing and cash subsidy.

In the final presidential debate, he said economy needs “two surgeries”: reform within the system and reengineer the economy.

He reiterated that if corruption is rooted out, he can pay cash subsidy to 40 million Iranians which is 450,000 tomans.

Rezaei added that he has drafted a plan to take “Iran forward,” repeating that he will keep his promises.

Rezaei who had run unsuccessfully for the presidential post two times in the past also vowed to connect the youth to the banks to get long-term loans with low-interest rates.

He stated that his administration will base education system on schools and. The presidential aspirant has also said that women will benefit from cheap internet to sell goods and promote their business.

He has also promised to provide cheap housing for teachers to take a burden off of their shoulders.

He has promised that the share of the women in economy must be increased, stating that he has a modern plan.

Calling his government “pragmatic and strategic with plans based on scientific research,” it was expected from him to publish his plans.

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“Iran will not face any security issues at the time of elections. We are ready for prevention in possible cases,” the Iranian interior minister said.

Rahmani Fazli predicted a high turnout of voters in the elections on June 18.

In relevant remarks earlier this week, Rahmani Fazli said that the number of polling stations and voting hours will increase for people to participate in the June 18 presidential elections to be serve health protocols and social distancing rules.

Today, a joint meeting was held between Iran’s Election Office and the central executive apparatus so as to review reports and comments over the 2021 Iran presidential election, Rahmani Fazli told reporters.

Regarding the security issues of the election process and its necessary measures, a comprehensive report was submitted in this meeting, he said, adding, “Based on continuous observance, we will not face any special security issue during the election in the current situation.”

Rahmani Fazli also referred to measures related to observing health protocols, saying that in order to observe health protocols and social distance measures, it was decided that the number of poll stations and the voting hours will be increased.

All agents in poll stations must have a certificate of negative test so as not to spread the virus, the official added.

The Iranian interior ministry on May 25 declared the names of 7 hopefuls qualified by Iran’s vetting body, the Guardian Council, to run in the presidential race.

The 7 approved candidates include Iran’s Judiciary Chief Seyed Ebrahim Raeisi, Secretary of Iran’s Expediency Council and former IRGC commander Mohsen Rezaei, Iranian reformist politician and former Governor of Isfahan Province Mohsen Mehr Alizadeh, former secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran Saeed Jalili, Iranian Member of the Parliament Alireza Zakani, Governor of the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) Abdolnasser Hemmati and Parliament’s Vice-Speaker Seyed Amir Hossein Qazizadeh Hashemi.

The disapproved candidates had the opportunity to protest at their disqualification vote and the qualified candidates can start their campaign as of May 25 until 24 hours before elections.

Several candidates, including former Defense Minister Hossein Dehqan and former Oil Minister Rostam Qassemi, dropped out of the race in Raeisi’s favor before the Guardian Council declared its decision on their qualification.

Raeisi is known to be the favorite pick in this election after he gathered fame in systematic aide to the poor when he headed the Shiite Islam’s 8th Imam, Hazrat Ali Ibn-e Moussa’s endowment Institution, and then in fighting corruption during his present career as the Judiciary Chief. He was facing mounting calls by his supporters and associated political figures to join the 2021 presidential race, with a top body of Principlists now backing him as their top choice but he has declared himself as an independent candidate.
He served as attorney general from 2014 to 2016, and was deputy Judiciary chief from 2004 to 2014. He was also prosecutor and deputy prosecutor of Tehran in the 1980s and 90s.

Raeisi became a household name in Iran in 2017 when he ran as a Principlist candidate in the presidential election. He lost the vote to Rouhani.

As the Judiciary chief, Raeisi has launched a widespread anti-corruption campaign. He drew up laws to protect women against domestic violence.

The Constitutional Council — also known as the Guardian Council — is a body of Islamic and legal jurists that acts in many ways as a Supreme Court.

Half of the body’s 12 members are legal jurists. They are nominated by the head of the Iranian Parliament and put to the vote of the Parliament, while the rest are specialists in Islamic law, and are appointed by the country’s highest-ranking authority, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution.

Membership in the Council is for phased six-year terms, which means half the membership changes every three years at random.

The Council affirms or rejects any interpretation of the law made in bills passed by parliament. The members sitting on the Council vet the compatibility of the legislation with the Constitution and its Islamic basis.

Any legislation rejected by the Council will be passed back to the Parliament, which will have to rewrite the proposed bill if it wants it to proceed with it. Disagreements between the two bodies are referred to the Expediency Council for a final decision.

Another one of the Council’s tasks is to supervise elections. All candidates standing for election and those for the Assembly of Experts — another supreme body — must secure the Constitutional Council’s approval before they can join the race.

Iran will simultaneously hold the 13th presidential election and the 6th City and Village Councils Elections on June 18.

The election in which voters will pick a president for a four-year term will be held as the country is still grappling with the COVID-19 outbreak.

As stipulated in the Constitution, the President is elected for a four-year term by direct vote, and is allowed only two successive terms, although he can run for a third nonconsecutive term.

To run for president, a candidate must satisfy six key qualifications outlined in the Constitution, namely being an Iranian national and of Iranian origin, having “administrative capacity and resourcefulness” besides a good past record and the qualities of trustworthiness and piety. The President must also have a firm belief in the fundamental principles of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Islam, the official religion of the country.

Hopefuls need the approval of the Constitutional Council — a panel of six theologians and six legal experts — for running in presidential elections.

Presidents are elected with a majority of the vote. If no candidate manages to secure the threshold in the first round, a run-off is held between the two candidates that have received the most votes in the first round.

Under Article 113 of the Iranian Constitution, the President acts as the country’s chief executive and is responsible for implementing the law of the land “except in matters directly concerned with the office of the Leadership.”

Within the limits of his powers and duties, the President is responsible before “the people, the Leader, and the Islamic Consultative Assembly,” as the Iranian Parliament (Majlis) is formally called.

The President appoints ministers, subject to the approval of the Parliament.

The chief executive has the authority to sign agreements with other governments as well as those pertaining to international organizations, after securing parliamentary approval.

Ambassadors to other countries are also appointed upon the recommendation of the Foreign Minister and approval of the President, who also receives the credentials presented by the ambassadors of foreign countries.

The President is tasked with administering national planning, the budget, and state employment affairs.

In addition, he heads the Supreme National Security Council, which protects and supports national interests, the Islamic Revolution, and the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Meanwhile, the President serves as the chairman of Iran’s Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution, a body set up after the 1979 Revolution to ensure the country’s education and culture remain Islamic and will not be influenced by other cultures and ideologies.

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Mahdi Atefat, director of the Interests Section, has informed IRNA that Iranian citizens living in the United States can vote in the June 18 presidential election at 24 polling places around the country.

He noted that the number of polling places has been increased from two regions in Washington, D.C. and New York to 24 areas in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Virginia, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma, with one or two polling places open in each of those states on Friday.

Atefat also stated that two voting centers will be set up in Oregon and Buffalo, New York State, to allow Iranians living in Canada to vote in those areas.

However, due of the coronavirus limitations, Iranian expats in Canada may have problems crossing the border, he added.

The voting places for the Iranian presidential election will be open on Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. local time in each state, according to the official.

Six Iranian executive officers, including an observer from the Iranian Constitutional Council (Guardian Council), will be stationed at each polling place, he said.

With the cooperation of the Diplomatic Security Service and local police, arrangements have been taken to secure the security of polling booths, according to Atefat.

Seven candidates are running in Iran’s presidential election, which is scheduled for June 18.

This year, more than 59,310,000 Iranians are eligible to vote.

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The candidates arrived at IRIB building at 3:30pm to prepare for the third debate. The candidates arrived in turn, based on the drawing of lots done last time. Alireza Zakani arrived first and responded to the reporters’ questions. He said people have dignity and no one should misuse the people’s dignity.

He called himself “the voice of the looted.”

Mohsen Rezaei arrived next. He said that the share of the women in the economy must be increased, stating that he has a modern plan.

He called his government “operational and strategic with plans based on scientific research.”

Reformist candidate Mohsen Mehr Alizadeh was the third candidate to arrive at the IRIB building. He said that government’s transparency will reduce challenges.

Seyyed Ebrahim Raeisi arrived 4th at the IRIB building. When asked about his plans if he is elected president, he said that in his administration he will only appoint persons at managerial posts who are popular, effortful and have an anti-corruption spirit.

Abdolnasser Hemmati was the next candidate who arrived next. He said that the relationship between the people and the government must be fixed.

The youngest presidential contender, Amir Hossein Qazizadeh Hashemi, was the next to arrive. He discussed important issues, such as the JCPOA, saying that his government will remain committed to all international deals.

He said that his administration, whom he has called “Government of Greetings”, will make people benefit from such deals, and Americans will soon realize they will conclude negotiations with action and not just empty promises.

Saeed Jalili was the last candidate who entered the building. He said that people’s concerns must be known to the president, adding that he has truly and tangibly felt people’s concerns by traveling to various cities around the country.

As usual, drawing of lots determined where candidates can sit during the debate. Saeed Jalili was allocated seat number one, with the rest seated according to the following

list: Zakani, Hemmati, Raeisi, Mehr Alizadeh, Qazizadeh Hashemi, and Rezaei.

Qazizadeh Hashemi

The debate began with a question from Qazizadeh Hashemi. He said that mismanagement and lack of trust are reasons behind the major problems in Iran.

He suggested that the solution to Iran’s problems lie in “change in the country’s officials.”  He also criticized the incumbent administration’s negotiation approach, saying, “The Leader of the Islamic Revolution gave an extraordinary opportunity to negotiate with the United States, but government ruined it.”

The sitting MP who is seeking presidential post stated that a change in generation of policymakers is the only way to counter Iran’s challenges.

“Exactly like the very first days of the Revolution, honest youth must come to power,” he exemplified.

On inflation and high-price rises, which is the primary concern of people, Qazizadeh said inflationary pressures wreak havoc on Iranian households and businesses.

“High inflation rate creates many problems for Iranian families, (different) sectors.” He also said if he wins the presidency he will form “ministry of family” to tackle issues of households.

On his foreign policy, he said he will appoint a foreign minister “with a background in international trade.”

Qazizadeh also said, “A comprehensive system of transparency will be established with the establishment of an electronic government.”

He elaborated by saying that if e-government and transparency are needed, Iran also needs cyberspace and should not limit it. He added, “My government will protect the rights of all people.”

He concluded by saying that if there was an atmosphere of zeal, “our daughters would not have remained without a dowry and people wouldn’t have been pocketed at the stock market.”

Mohsen Rezaei

Rezaei said Iran has regained its lost authority in security after 300 years. He also said he has divided economy in 3 sections, including “economy of life,” “economy of provinces,” and “economy of family”.

“In areas of defense and security we have done extraordinary things while we are wrestling with economic problems,” said Rezaei, the former chief of the IRGC.

Rezaei also criticized monopoly in import of chador, corn, meat, etc.   (Chador is a large piece of cloth that is wrapped around the head and upper body, worn especially by Muslim women).

He also said officials are caught in a false “factional dispute” and neglecting focus on high price rises.

The former top military officer said “we can again start a move like the Revolution” and create an epic like the time that people resisted the invading Saddam army during the sacred defense.

He said economy needs “two surgeries”: A reform within the system and reengineering the economy.

Rezaei repeated his promise that if corruption is uprooted, his government can provide enough money to pay cash subsidy (to 40 million Iranians). He said the amount of cash subsidy is 450,000 tomans.

He also said a great reform is needed in political atmosphere.

Rezaei stated that his government will establish order in society, emphasizing importance of “collective wisdom”.

He described the youth as “saviors of Iran,” stating that his administration will be a mixture of the Revolutionary youth and experienced experts. He added he will build schools for “future leaders”.

He also said that he will link producers to the realtors and he will connect the youth to the banks to get long-term loans with low-interest rates.

He stated that he will not employ “imploring diplomacy,” and will not wait for negotiations.

Rezaei reiterated that the managers must have a plan and ask for consultation.

“Managers must be aware of challenges in the next 8 years,” he said, putting an emphasis on the next 8 years as the most important years of the Islamic Republic. He noted that planning and implementation of plans are two separate issues. He once again said that his administration is perfect at both planning and execution.

Rezaei concluded by saying that he has drafted a plan to take “Iran forward,” repeating that he will keep his promises.

He said that he will promote small businesses, follow a wisely drafted housing plan with long-term loans with low-interest rates, and will give 30% of the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) stocks to the people.

Ebrahim Raeisi

Raeisi stated that he has divided his comprehensive economic plans into three sections: Government reform and tackling corruption and discrimination; family support; and empowering businesses and taking a leap in production.

He also called transparency an important issue and emphasized a regulation of the tax system. He stated that the second most important issue is high inflation that must be controlled.

Raeisi said that he will cut dependence of people’s lives to foreign currency (prices), adding that he will give credit cards to lower 3 deciles.

He also promised to create 4 million jobs in four years.

Raeisi also said if the FATF is beneficiary to Iran, it must be ratified, and if it is not, it must not. On international deals, he said that Iran “is and will be committed to the JCPOA.”

On his post-COVID-19 economic plan, he said that small businesses have been badly affected during the coronavirus pandemic that there is a need to reactivate them.

Raeisi also said he is and has always been honest with people.

He promised to broaden cyberspace, repeating that internet must be free for lower deciles.

When accused by his rival Hemmati of trying to censor internet, Raeisi said that he never ordered to limit any website or close a newspaper in his term as the Judiciary chief.

Raeisi concluded by saying that his government will lean towards justice, and will utilize all capacities and will execute all development plans drafted in previous parliaments and administrations. He said that the president must have a holistic look at all people.

Alireza Zakani

Zakani began his remarks by saying that high inflation rate is the most important issue at the moment, promising that he will reform budget structure, control inflation and decrease it to a single-digit rate.

He also said that he’ll uproot corruption in government, parliament and Judiciary, and promised to regulate wealth distribution system.

He also revealed a letter written by his rival Hemmati to President Rouhani, proposing increasing petrol prices to 5,000 tomans.

“52% inflation is a disaster that is the result of the performance of the Rouhani administration. Mr. Hemmati should also answer about high liquidity,” he added.

“I will reduce inflation by half in the first year,” he promised.

Zakani said that he will bring transparency to the government through creating e-government by broadening internet infrastructure.

He also said that lower deciles will receive three different rates of cash subsidies.

He described honesty as an important characteristic of presidency, saying that he is here to stop economic corruption.

He added, “The wealthy are enjoying energy subsidy 15 times more than the low-income people.”

Zakani said that his government will pay attention to domestic production to neutralize sanctions, with a particular attention to farming. “I will decentralize the management system and give priority to rural areas.”

He went on to criticize Iran’s small share of export and import within the Eurasia zone, adding that the FATF mustn’t be signed and trades can be done with all foreign currencies, not just U.S. dollar.

“I will give priority to meritocracy,” Zakani said.

Praising the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Zakani said without the Islamic Revolution none of the candidates would have been here. He said he will uproot corruption and confront “lying”.

“It’s time to rise against looters,” he suggested.

He promised to tackle abject poverty in one year, saying that he’ll provide facilities for idled production capacities, promising to follow the constitution.

“We will administer the rule of law,” he promised.

He also said that he will provide insurance for fertile couples.

Saeed Jalili 

Jalili began the debate by saying that the causes of problems are not a “mystery.”

“The main concern of people is that why problems are not being resolved. People’s concerns and problems is not like the Coronavirus which its origin is unknown.”

He emphasized that Iran has a great potential, saying that his government plans to draw a roadmap for all ministries to counter challenges.

He added that the president must use time as an advantage, saying that his administration will not waste time by performing “shows.”

The former top security official added, “People are concerned about price fluctuations.”

He said that economic stability is needed to govern Iran, saying that the sanctions have affected Iran, but not as greatly as it is portrayed by the incumbent president. He added that the leverage of sanctions must be taken from U.S., referring to the recent remarks by U.S. officials seeking further negotiations by threatening to use the leverage of sanctions against Iran.

He stated that a “leap” in production will lead to a leap in economic growth.

Jalili said that sanctions must be neutralized, while criticizing the incumbent government’s negotiating strategy. He said that foreign relations must be made with all countries, emphasizing that the president must understand foreign relations.

“Now some (officials) apologize (about price hikes) but some even don’t seek apology from people.”

Jalili was referring to Vice President Es’haq Jahangiri who has apologized people for high inflation rate.

Jalili said that he warned the president that the government must do its job faster, responding to Hemmati’s criticism about a costly circumvention of sanctions during Jalili’s term as chief nuclear negotiator. He stated that economic relations can be made with all countries, saying that conventions such as FATF are useless for Iran, calling the JCPOA the “document of Iran as a claimant”.

Jalili said that opportunities must be “greatly” used, and researches about production obstacles must have been made by now. He reiterated that now is not the time for researches.

He said that he will define missions for all organizations and ministries to focus on various tasks, with particular reference to earning foreign currency.
In response to Hemmati’s criticism, he said that in his point of view Iran is considered a member of the FATF, implementing 39 paragraphs out of 41. (Iran is not considered a member of the FATF by the institution)

Jalili also responded to criticism by Hemmati about sanctions. He cited an example saying that Iran’s volume of trade with Iraq is about 12 billion dollars and only the government has not been able to get its money from Iraq but the private sector has been doing its job without hurdles.

Jalili concluded by saying that the next 4 years should be “the years of leap”, and pure Islam should be implemented in the society.

He reiterated that he is not looking for power.

Abdolnasser Hemmati 

Hemmati began by saying that the United States’ sanctions against Iran have wreaked havoc on the country. “Sanctions have disrupted the economy over the last decade.”

“Iran must engage in trade with rest of the world, cannot survive individually,” he said.

Hemmati attributed the dearth of foreign investment in Iran to sanctions.

Hemmati reiterated that without five percent economic growth “no problem will be solved and without investment economic growth is impossible.”

He went on to criticize government officials, including president Rouhani and minister of economy for encouraging people to invest in the stock market, saying he had warned about bubble in the stock market. He also criticized political interference in the stock market and repeated change of the stock market directors.

He criticized Saeed Jalili for saying that trade could be done with all countries in the world, saying, “Our best friends are Iraq and China, but they do not give us our money. You said “interaction is good, but with whom?! You should know the world will not work with Iran without discussing the JCPOA.”

He said that he will execute the general vaccination program by the end of the year.

Hemmati went on to address farmers, saying that he will guarantee buying their products like wheat at market price. He added, “I will uproot inflation.”

Hemmati concluded his remarks by defending himself. He also urged people to attend the polling stations if they want a prosperous economy.

Mehr Alizadeh 

Mehr Alizadeh began his statements by saying that “lack of trust in authorities” is one of the major concerns in the society.

“Iran is suffering from problems ranging from lack of transparency, brain drain, corruption,” he added.

He said that the crisis of livelihood, environment, social welfare, trust and social deprivation is the “crisis of today.”

He also criticized government interference in stock market.  “The stock exchange plays an important role in the economy of the country; it should be left in the hands of investors.”

He concluded by saying that Iranians have two options: ignoring the ballot box or having hope for the future. “Let’s go to the polls,” he said.

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“If the administration wants to succeed in other areas, it should treat art as a necessity and approach it not passively, but proactively,” said Jalili, a member of Iran’s Expediency Council. “Why shouldn’t our cinema compete with that of Hollywood? Our music should be shared with the rest of the world.”

Later that day, during a news broadcast on IRIB Channel 2, Jalili discussed his strategy for the young generation, particularly in areas of job creation.

“One of the goals that we will pursue in the future administration is to create four million jobs for the youth over the next four years, and we have an agenda for that,” he stated.

According to the Iranian Constitution, everyone has a right to a proper, satisfying job, according to Jalili. He added, “We have analyzed this issue and devised a range of programs for it.”

Jalili stated that the country has significant potential in mining, industry, fishing, and tourism, among other areas, which should be capitalized on.

Furthermore, many of the administration’s research projects may be assigned to adolescents concentrating in human sciences to assist them in entering the labor market, he argued.

The presidential election will be held on June 18. The Guardian Council announced on Friday that the ballot boxes will open at 7 am and close at 00:00 (GMT+4:30)

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An hour prior to the debate, candidates arrived at the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) building to prepare for the second debate. Each had his own strategy in the debate. All candidates seemed to be focusing on presenting their plans, instead of accusing and defaming each other. Alireza Zakani said he is here to eradicate poverty, while Mohsen Mehr Alizadeh said that he will stick to his game plan and will not change his debating strategy. Mohsen Rezaei said that he hopes for the people to witness a fresh start and a new chapter in their lives and his government will “grant” hope to the people. Abdolnasser Hemmati said that he will focus on presenting his plans, as he is here to rescue media, economy, and culture. He called his administration “Government of National Transparency.” Saeed Jalili said that the debates are a ground to exchange views in a friendly atmosphere, hoping candidates share plans about neglected issues such as women, villagers and others. At the meantime, Raeisi said his rival is fraud and immorality, telling people that their will is important in improving the situation. He said he will not use his extra 5 minute to debunk accusations against himself. Amir Hossein Qazizadeh said he is here to build an Iran with the involvement of all classes of society, hoping candidates focus on main points. He said he has worked on his plans for years.

The debate started off with the drawing of lots to determine candidates’ seats. Mohsen Rezaei was given seat 1; Alireza Zakani seat 2; Mohsen Mehr Alizadeh seat 3; Amir Hossein Qazizadeh seat 4; Saeed Jalili seat 5; Ebrahim Raeisi seat 6; and Abdolnasser Hemmati seat 7.

Seyyed Ebrahim Raeisi

Raeisi opened the debate by saying that he forfeits his extra 5 minute to debunk accusations levelled against him in the first debate held on Saturday.

“Social inequality is a result of mismanagement,” he said.

He also said that he will regulate salaries and give impetus to economic capacities.

When he was given 4 minutes to critique candidates’ remarks, the top judge said he has always been responsible in every position. He also stated that the most important issue of the country is to follow every single thing, such as regulating the salaries of workers and teachers.

Each candidate was given 3 minutes to defend his plans. Raeisi began his 3-minute defense by saying that people’s livelihood has been heavily affected. He said Iran has political independence, but not economic independence due to some officials’ viewpoints. He also said that justice is being undermined in all aspects, and it should be restored, especially political, social and economic justice.

In the second half of the debate, Raeisi discussed the need to remove cruel sanctions and at the same time making efforts to neutralize them.

“Economy should not be subjected to sanctions,” he said, emphasizing that active economic diplomacy cannot be achieved through words. According to the cleric presidential candidate, economic development is achievable through international marketing.

In his conclusion, Raeisi said that rights of the people must be guaranteed. Exemplifying the role of cyberspace in monitoring Judiciary officials as the chief judge, he said that it should be used by people to observe officials.

Mohsen Rezaei

Rezaei said one cannot deal with challenges through mottos and wizardry, adding he will stay until the end of election race and will not quit.

Addressing the audience, he said, “I will bring your stolen rights back.”

When he was given 4 minutes to evaluate candidates’ remarks, he said that his plan is called “Iran without poor people,” planning to provide “Abundance and Life” packages, including 450,000 tomans in cash subsidy.

In his 3-minute defense, he said that Iranian youth need to believe and be hopeful, stating that dedicated management can solve all challenges.

The former IRGC chief also claimed that environment has never been considered in five-year development plans.

“I plan to establish schools for ‘future leaders’ in all provinces,” he said. He stated that his administration will base education system on schools, and women will benefit from cheap internet to sell goods and promote their business.

Rezaei also promised to provide cheap housing for teachers to take a burden off of their shoulders.

In conclusion, he said that his plan is to perform major structural surgeries in the country. “I will reform political parties, and solve social issues through economy.”

Saeed Jalili

Jalili said that government officials need to change behavior to repair the damaged trust of people on officials, reiterating that Iran cannot be governed through “shows”.

When given 4 minutes to criticize candidates’ remarks, he said president should not just rule but prioritize plans to make Iran to make a “jump”. He added that maximum participation in the election is possible through presentation of candidates’ plans.

In his 3-minute defense, he said that the president needs synergy among all organizations, and should define missions for organizations and seriously follow the ensuing results.

In the second half of the debate, Jalili said that healthcare is not limited to just one ministry, and the government needs synergy among all government bodies. He said unemployment and road accidents affect healthcare, and they are not something the Ministry of Health can overcome singlehandedly. Other ministries should participate as well, he insisted.

He also said that Iran should not wait for a few (Western) countries, and should interact with all countries.

Mohsen Mehr Alizadeh 

Mehr Alizadeh began his remarks by saying that Iran must revive the JCPOA and negotiate from the position of power.

He also said that he will regulate recruitment of teachers and their salaries, and pay special attention to healthcare workers. He also said that COVID-19 crisis could have been handled better.

He also said the government needs to support the youth lifestyle.

The presidential contender said, “Our young scientists have developed nuclear program, and research institutes should localize nuclear science.”

Mehr Alizadeh said that Iranian youth have accomplished so much. He also said that he will elect 3 female ministers if the Majlis agrees. He added his government’s average age would be 45.

He concluded by saying that opportunities should be provided for the youth, and investment in cyberspace should be eased.

Abdolnasser Hemmati

Hemmati began his remarks by saying that he is the voice of the “silent majority”, arguing that monopoly is a major cause of inefficiency and corruption.

When given 4 minutes to critique candidates’ remarks, he said that cyberspace will help boost small businesses and he will remove obstacles for businesses. He said that he had sacrificed two years of his life running the central bank.

In his 3-minute defense, he said that meritocracy should be given priority, and his likely administration will seek to tap the competence of all ethnic and religious minorities and also women. He said that he will pay attention to environment and also make serious efforts to remove sanctions on Iran. He added that sanctions caused growth in liquidity.

He reiterated that his slogan is “interaction from homes to the world,” calling himself “the commander of sanction neutralization.”

He concluded by saying that he views everything economically, and considers himself representative of the youth.

Amir Hossein Qazizadeh 

Qazizadeh said that different bodies of the government need to work in harmony and that a structural reform is needed.

When given 4 minutes to critique candidates’ remarks, he said that he will pay special attention to the youth, criticizing long years of education and lamented brain drain.

He also said that the death toll from COVID-19 in Iran is unjustifiable.

“Debates are to make people understand candidates’ plans,” he said. He called Ministry of Education the most important ministry, saying that scouting talents is missing in the education system.

He said that “meritocracy” should be the criteria for appointing people in important positions.

He concluded by saying that the president is responsible for the country’s strategies, and the Foreign Ministry should use economic opportunities.

Alireza Zakani

Zakani began by saying that he is following 4 major plans in the field of culture and society, including environment protection. He added that as physician he will provide insurance for fertile couples.

When given 4 minutes to assess the candidates’ remarks, he said that freedom cannot be separated from justice, arguing that actions show candidates’ records.

In his 3-minute defense, he said that he is ready to hold debate with all candidates based on facts and figures, adding that president should present a complete package. Zakani repeated that he can uproot poverty in the first year of his presidency.

“My government will serve people, and I will distribute wealth fairly. I will confront those involved in economic corruption; our enemy is poverty, corruption and discrimination,” he said.

He concluded by saying that the people are fed up with economic frauds. He added production obstacles must be removed.

He added that the people’s privacy should be respected, and discrimination must be abolished. He finally said that 26 spies were arrested in the current administration.

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