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Iran elects president: Raisi is expected to win, the majority will remain at home
The head of the justice system close to Khamenei is the favorite to replace Rouhani, but the regime fears a low turnout will hurt his legitimacy.
"Every voice is important for the future of the country," Khamenei said
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Iran
Ibrahim Raisi
Reuters
Friday, 18 June 2021, 09:43 Updated: 09:46
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Iranian citizens are voting today (Friday) in the presidential election in which Justice Minister Ibrahim Raisi, an ally of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, is expected to win, with many expected to remain at home due to frustration with the economic situation and regime.
"Every vote is important, come and vote and elect your president, it is important for the future of the country," Khamenei said after opening the polls in Tehran this morning. Raisi, who is considered as one who may succeed the supreme leader one day, is the favorite to succeed outgoing President Hassan Rouhani who cannot run again after exhausting the quota of two terms.
The regime fears a low turnout that would undermine its legitimacy, while holding nuclear talks with the superpowers on the United States' return to the agreement and the removal of sanctions from Iran. Official television showed long lines outside the polls in several cities, and they will close at 19:30 (22:30 Israel time). More than 59 million citizens have the right to vote, and the results are expected to be published tomorrow.
Under U.S. sanctions.
Raisi at the polls in Tehran, today (Photo: Reuters)
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