Iran’s Parliamentary Election Sees Lowest Turnout Since 1979 Revolution
In a historic turn of events, Iran’s parliamentary election has witnessed the lowest turnout since the 1979 Islamic revolution. As election officials in Iran count the ballots, unofficial reports indicate a significant decline in voter participation. This election marks the first since the tragic death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurd, while in police custody, which sparked widespread protests in 2022. The prevailing hardship and discontent among the populace have led to a number of reformists boycotting the election.
Early results reveal that conservatives have emerged victorious in Tehran, securing all 30 seats. The election comprised two separate polls: one to elect members of parliament and another to elect the Assembly of Experts. The Assembly of Experts holds the responsibility of selecting and overseeing Iran’s most influential figure and commander-in-chief, the supreme leader.
Iran has been grappling with a multitude of challenges, including international sanctions, an economic crisis, and violent unrest. These factors have contributed to widespread disillusionment among the population. Despite Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s appeal for people to cast their votes, Iranians remain divided on whether or not to participate in the electoral process.
The previous parliamentary election in 2020 took place amidst the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic and witnessed a turnout of 42.57%, officially the lowest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Early polling on Friday indicated that this year’s election could witness an even lower turnout, particularly in the capital city of Tehran. A state-linked polling agency projected a turnout of 41% for the parliamentary elections, which, if accurate, would mark the lowest participation rate in the past 12 such votes.
As votes are manually tallied, the process of counting takes time. However, some results have already been announced. Iran’s state news agency, IRNA, reported that the majority of the Assembly of Experts for major cities have been counted. This assembly comprises 88 Islamic clerics who hold the responsibility of selecting the next supreme leader when the time comes. Notably, current Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has been re-elected to this body, securing 82.5% of the votes in South Khorasan province.
While around 50 of the 290 parliamentary seats have been declared by certain city councils, the final results are expected to be clear tomorrow. However, no official turnout figure has been announced thus far. Analysts speculate that a low turnout would reflect the general disillusionment and disenchantment with politics, as many officials in the country had urged voters to participate.
The Supreme Leader himself set an example by casting his vote early, emphasizing the significance of prompt participation. He stated, “Vote as soon as possible, as the eyes of Iran’s friends and ill-wishers are on the results.” The outcome of this election will undoubtedly shape Iran’s political landscape and have far-reaching implications for the country and its relations with the international community.
In conclusion, Iran’s parliamentary election has witnessed a historically low turnout, reflecting widespread disillusionment and discontent among the population. The boycott by reformists, coupled with the prevailing hardship faced by Iranians, has contributed to this decline in voter participation. As the results are being tallied, conservatives have emerged victorious in Tehran, securing all 30 seats. The final outcome of this election will undoubtedly shape Iran’s future trajectory and its relationship with the global community.