London, United Kingdom – Iran is currently in the process of counting the ballots from the parliamentary and key clerical body elections that took place on Friday. Reports indicate that the voter turnout for these elections, seen as a crucial test of national support for Iran’s leadership, is the lowest since the 1979 Islamic revolution.
The elections follow widespread protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurd, in police custody in September 2022. Amini was reportedly detained for violating Iran’s strict dress code for women, leading to outrage and demonstrations across the country.
Over 61.2 million Iranians were eligible to participate in the elections. Two separate polls were conducted on Friday to elect members of parliament and the Assembly of Experts, a body responsible for selecting Iran’s supreme leader.
Despite calls from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for citizens to vote, many Iranians were hesitant to participate due to dissatisfaction with the current political climate. Early polling data suggested a record low turnout, particularly in the capital city of Tehran.
While official turnout figures have not been released, state-linked polling agencies projected a 41% turnout for the parliamentary elections, marking a significant decrease in voter participation compared to previous elections. The final results of the elections are expected to be announced in the coming days.
The Assembly of Experts, composed of 88 Islamic clerics, is tasked with selecting the next supreme leader when the time comes. With Ayatollah Ali Khamenei approaching 85 years old, the new assembly will serve an eight-year term.
As Iran grapples with international sanctions, economic challenges, and social unrest, the outcome of these elections will have significant implications for the country’s political landscape. The low voter turnout reflects a growing disillusionment among Iranians with the current state of affairs, signaling a shift in public sentiment towards political participation.
Overall, the elections in Iran serve as a barometer of public opinion and a reflection of the evolving dynamics within the country’s political sphere. The results of the ballot counting process will determine the composition of the next parliament and shape the future direction of Iran’s leadership.