Iran’s Presidential Election 2021: Approval of a List of Mainly Hardline Candidates to Replace Raisi
Iran’s presidential election held on June 18, 2021, has seen the approval of a list of mainly hardline candidates to replace the incumbent President Hassan Rouhani. The election, which was described as a contested race by some international observers, received mixed reactions both within and outside of the country. The Islamic Republic’s Guardian Council, a powerful body that has the final say on all matters related to elections in Iran, approved a list of six candidates out of 591 hopefuls.
Approved Candidates
The six approved candidates include: Ebrahim Raisi, the current chief justice and a former head of the Astan Quds Razavi Foundation; Amirhossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi, a former military commander and the current chairman of the Assembly of Experts’ Presidium; Mohsen Mehralizadeh, a conservative political activist and former sports minister; Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a former president, and the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s confidant; Saeed Jalili, a diplomat and a former nuclear negotiator; and Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, the current mayor of Tehran.
Ebrahim Raisi: The Front-Runner
Among the approved candidates, Raisi is considered the front-runner due to his strong support base among the country’s conservative factions. His close ties to the Islamic Republic’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have given him an advantage in the race. However, his past associations with human rights abuses and allegations of corruption have raised concerns among some observers.
Impact on Iran’s Foreign Policy
The outcome of the election is likely to have significant implications for Iran’s international-news/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>foreign policy. With Raisi at the helm, it is expected that Iran’s stance on regional and international issues will become more confrontational, particularly towards Israel and the United States. However, some analysts argue that Raisi may seek to strike a more conciliatory tone if he believes it will serve Iran’s interests.
I. Introduction
The Iranian presidential election system, a crucial component of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s political framework, is characterized by a complex and multi-layered process. It reflects the country’s unique blend of religious and democratic elements.
Significance
Understanding this system is essential for evaluating the political landscape of Iran and interpreting the outcomes of its elections.
Overview
As the country gears up for its 13th presidential election since the Islamic Revolution of 1979, scheduled for June 18, 2021, it is crucial to examine the significance of this election in the context of Iran’s evolving political dynamics.
Presidential Election System
The Islamic Republic of Iran’s presidential elections are indirect, with the populace selecting a council of experts (Consistory Council), which then elects the president. The Consistory Council comprises representatives from various sectors, including religious figures, military personnel, and parliamentarians.
Upcoming Election
The upcoming presidential election holds particular importance given the domestic and international challenges Iran faces. These include economic instability, regional tensions, and escalating nuclear negotiations with global powers.
Implications
The outcome of this election could significantly impact Iran’s domestic policies and international relations, making it a critical moment in the country’s political development.
Background
Recap of the 2017 Election that Brought Raisi to Power
The 2017 presidential election in Iran marked a significant turning point when Hassan Raisi, a low-profile conservative cleric, emerged as the surprise winner. Raisi’s rise to power came after a heated campaign characterized by allegations of irregularities and voter fraud that marred the polls. His main rival, the more moderate candidate and incumbent Vice President, Eshaq Jahangiri, conceded defeat only after the Guardian Council, Iran’s highest electoral body, validated Raisi’s victory.
Description of Raisi’s Political Background and Ideology
Born in 1960, Hassan Raisi began his political career as a young attorney at the age of 27. He rose through the ranks within Iran’s powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and served on various judiciary committees before becoming head of the Astan Quds Razavi Foundation, Iran’s largest religious endowment. His presidential platform focused on economic development, anti-corruption measures, and social welfare – issues that resonated with many Iranians disillusioned by high unemployment rates and an ailing economy. Raisi is often described as a pragmatic hardliner, holding moderate views on economic issues but maintaining a conservative stance on social and foreign policy matters.
Analysis of His Presidency, Achievements, and Controversies
During his first term in office (2017–2021), Raisi faced numerous challenges. He focused on domestic issues, launching an ambitious anti-corruption campaign that targeted high-ranking officials and business elites. Simultaneously, he worked to improve the economy by increasing investment in infrastructure projects and implementing economic reforms aimed at reducing government expenditures. However, his presidency was also marked by controversy, including allegations of human rights abuses against dissidents and ethnic minorities.
Contextual Factors Influencing the 2021 Election
Economic Challenges and Social Unrest
As Raisi sought re-election in 2021, Iran faced mounting economic challenges. The country’s economy continued to struggle under the weight of international sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic. These issues contributed to widespread social unrest, with protests erupting in various cities over economic grievances and calls for political change.
International Pressures on Iran’s Nuclear Program
Another major factor influencing the 2021 election was the international community’s ongoing pressure on Iran’s nuclear program. Diplomatic efforts to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) – the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers – stalled, leaving Iran in a precarious position vis-à-vis global powers. The potential for renewed sanctions on Iran further complicated the domestic political landscape, making the election a pivotal moment in the country’s history.
Role of the Guardian Council in Candidate Vetting
The role of the Guardian Council in the 2021 election cannot be overlooked. This powerful body, consisting of Islamic clerics and jurists, holds significant influence over Iran’s political landscape by vetting candidates for elective offices to ensure their adherence to Islamic law. As a result, the Guardian Council’s approval or disapproval of potential presidential candidates significantly shapes the outcome of Iranian elections. The 2021 election was no exception, as several prominent figures were barred from running, further narrowing the field and increasing speculation about the eventual winner.
I The Approval Process for Hardline Candidates
Explanation of the role and responsibilities of the Guardian Council in the Iranian political system
The Guardian Council, a constitutional body in Iran, plays an essential role in preserving the Islamic nature of the Iranian state and ensuring the compatibility of legislation with Sharia law. Established in 1982, it has the power to review laws passed by the parliament and the Expediency Council, as well as oversee elections and approve presidential candidates.
Analysis of the vetting process for presidential candidates
Criteria for candidate eligibility
Presidential candidates in Iran must meet strict qualifications set by the Guardian Council, including being a Shia Muslim, born in Iran, and possessing Iranian nationality for at least 10 years. Additionally, candidates must not have dual citizenship or a criminal record.
The role of the Guardian Council in disqualifying potential candidates
The Guardian Council, consisting of six clerics and six legal experts, holds significant influence over the political landscape by having the final say in approving or disqualifying candidates. The Council vets candidates based on their political and religious beliefs, as well as their stance on key issues such as economy, foreign policy, and human rights.
Identification and profiles of the approved hardline candidates for the 2021 presidential election
Ebrahim Raisi (previous candidate, currently serving as head of the Judiciary)
Background and political ideology:
Ebrahim Raisi, a former deputy chief of the Plan and Budget Organization, was disqualified from running for president in 2013 due to his hardline stance. He became head of the Judiciary in March 2019, and there is speculation that he might be a potential candidate for the upcoming election. Raisi’s political ideology can be characterized as an advocate for the supremacy of the Islamic Republic, focusing on social justice and economic development.
Amir-Hossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi (former parliament speaker)
Background and political ideology:
Amir-Hossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi, a former speaker of the Iranian parliament and a veteran politician, is another potential hardline candidate. A member of the Islamic Coalition Party, he has been a staunch critic of the United States and Israel. Ghazizadeh Hashemi’s political stance emphasizes Islamic principles, national security, and economic self-sufficiency.
Mohsen Rezaei (former IRGC commander)
Background and political ideology:
Mohsen Rezaei, a former commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has announced his intention to run in the upcoming election. He was also the secretary-general of the Expediency Council from 1989 to 2004 and has held several other high-ranking positions. Rezaei’s political views are characterized by a strong commitment to the Islamic Republic, resistance against Western influence, and economic development.
Vaez-Taleghani (former member of parliament)
Background and political ideology:
Ali Asghar Vaez-Taleghani, a former member of parliament, is another potential hardline candidate. He has a background in military intelligence and was the head of Iran’s Central Bank from 2013 to 2017. Vaez-Taleghani’s political stance highlights national security, the importance of the Islamic Revolution, and opposition to Western influence.
Reasons for the Approval of Hardline Candidates
Analysis of the Factors Leading to the Guardian Council’s Approval of Mainly Hardline Candidates
The approval of hardline candidates in Iran’s political landscape is a phenomenon that has been a subject of intense debate and analysis. The Guardian Council, an influential body responsible for the vetting of political candidates, has consistently endorsed hardline figures, leading some observers to question the motivations behind this trend. The Desire for Stability and Maintaining the Status Quo: One of the primary reasons for the Guardian Council’s preference for hardline candidates is its commitment to preserving stability and maintaining the status quo. In a region marked by political instability, Iran’s leadership has sought to present a united front against perceived threats, both domestic and international. Hardline candidates are often seen as reliable allies who support the current political order and are less likely to challenge the established power structure.
The Need to Appease Powerful Factions within the Iranian Political System, including the Military and Clergy
Another factor influencing the Guardian Council’s decision-making process is the need to appease powerful factions within the Iranian political system. The military and clergy, two major constituencies in Iran’s political landscape, have traditionally wielded significant influence over the country’s political direction. By endorsing hardline candidates who are seen as sympathetic to their interests, the Guardian Council aims to maintain its support among these key players and ensure continued stability.
Discussion of Potential Consequences of This Decision for Iran’s Domestic and Foreign Policy
The Guardian Council’s approval of hardline candidates carries significant consequences for both Iran’s domestic and foreign policy. Domestically, the emphasis on hardline figures may exacerbate political tensions and social unrest. The opposition, which has long criticized the government for its authoritarian tendencies and human rights abuses, may view this trend as further evidence of Iran’s lack of democratic progress. Internationally, the approval of hardline candidates could complicate efforts to improve relations with the United States and other Western powers. The US has consistently criticized Iran’s human rights record and its support for regional militant groups, making it challenging for Iran to present a more moderate face to the world.
Conclusion
The approval process for the 2021 Iranian presidential election saw a predominant selection of hardline candidates, with Ebrahim Raisi ultimately emerging as the victor. The Guardian Council, tasked with vetting contenders, effectively excluded more moderate and reformist figures, citing various reasons including insufficient loyalty to the Islamic Republic or past political disqualifications. This trend reflects a deepening polarization within Iranian politics, with hardliners continuing to hold significant sway over the country’s political landscape.
Implications for Iran’s Political Landscape
The approval of mainly hardline candidates in the election could lead to increased tension and potential instability within Iran. Raisi’s presidency may further solidify the influence of conservative factions, potentially leading to more repressive policies regarding human rights and dissent. Furthermore, this development could intensify ongoing tensions with the opposition, both within Iran and among the diaspora community.
Implications for Iran’s Relations with the International Community
Internationally, Raisi’s presidency could complicate efforts to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or nuclear deal, as hardline elements within Iran’s government have historically been skeptical of engagement with the West. This could lead to a prolonged period of international isolation, exacerbating economic challenges and potentially fueling further unrest within Iran.
Final Thoughts
The approval of hardline candidates in the 2021 Iranian presidential election underscores the ongoing polarization within Iran’s political landscape. While this development could potentially lead to increased stability for some, it may also usher in a period of greater tension and instability both domestically and internationally. Ultimately, the future direction of Iranian politics will depend on how Raisi and his administration navigate these challenges.
