Iran’s hard-line parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the upcoming presidential election in Iran. With the registration deadline passing on Monday, Qalibaf is among the rumored candidates to replace the late Ebrahim Raisi, who tragically died in a helicopter crash on May 19.
Qalibaf’s political career has been marked by a series of failed presidential bids and a long tenure as the mayor of Tehran, where he oversaw significant infrastructure projects such as expanding the city’s subway system and supporting the construction of modern high-rise buildings. His recent re-election as speaker of parliament has positioned him as a formidable contender in the upcoming election.
Despite his accomplishments in urban development, Qalibaf’s reputation is tarnished by his involvement in violent crackdowns on Iranian university students during his time as a Revolutionary Guard general and as the country’s police chief. In 1999, he supported a brutal suppression of student protests, and in 2003, he reportedly ordered the use of live gunfire against demonstrators.
As Qalibaf enters the presidential race, his controversial past is likely to come under scrutiny. His hard-line stance and history of repressive actions have drawn criticism from human rights advocates and political opponents. However, his supporters view him as a strong leader with a track record of getting things done.
The upcoming election in Iran will be closely watched both domestically and internationally. The outcome will have significant implications for the country’s future direction, particularly in light of ongoing tensions with Western powers and regional conflicts in the Middle East.
With Qalibaf now in the running, the field of candidates for the presidency is beginning to take shape. Other potential contenders are expected to emerge in the coming weeks, setting the stage for a competitive and closely watched election campaign.
As Iran prepares to choose its next leader, the stakes are high. The country faces a range of challenges, from economic pressures and social unrest to international isolation and security threats. The outcome of the election will have far-reaching consequences for Iran and its place in the global community.
In the midst of uncertainty and turmoil, Iran’s political future hangs in the balance. The choice of its next president will shape the country’s trajectory for years to come. As Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf steps into the spotlight, all eyes are on him and his vision for Iran’s future.