iranintl – Iran’s Supreme Leader admitted that the low participation rate in the first round of presidential elections on Friday was “less than expected” after a mass boycott of the polls.
Ali Khamenei dismissed the idea that those abstaining are against the system.
“Some people may dislike certain officials or even the Islamic system itself, just as they freely express these views, but the idea that everyone who did not vote is aligned with these individuals and this mindset is completely wrong,” he said in a Wednesday meeting with officials.
While the turnout was around 40 percent according to official statistics, it is believed to have been much lower amid Iran’s ongoing uprising.
Khamenei attributed the low turnout to “problems, work, and difficulties,” expressing hope that the second round would see more enthusiastic participation.
Since the record low turnout in the March parliamentary elections, Khamenei has consistently attributed non-participation to “laziness,” downplaying any deeper societal or political reasons.
Again, official figures suggested around 40 percent turnout while unofficial figures suggested around 10 percent participation.
Khamenei’s rhetoric aims to frame voter apathy as a simple lack of effort rather than a response to underlying discontent or dissatisfaction with the regime.
While casting his own ballot on Friday, Khamenei emphasized action over inaction. He urged, “Don’t be lazy, don’t neglect, don’t underestimate; participate in all corners of the country.”
In a speech leading up to the election last week, Khamenei highlighted the significance of voting, stating, “For us Iranians, voting day is a happy day. The ‘Republic’ in the Islamic Republic means that the presence of people in the system is integral.”
He further questioned reluctance, asserting, “Why would there be doubt? It’s an easy thing to do. Why would anyone not do something that is free, easy, and not time-consuming but has many benefits? Participation is essential for the continuation of the establishment.”
Nevertheless, Khamenei has not entirely abandoned hope that the populace will heed his call, even though the nation at large is aware of the sham nature of the polls.
In a short statement published on his website, Khamenei said of the upcoming Friday voting: “The second round of the presidential election is crucial. Those who love Islam, the Islamic Republic, and the country’s progress should demonstrate this by participating in the election.”
His comments come amidst Iran’s ongoing repression of dissenters. Since its establishment in 1979, the regime has consistently violated human rights, often imprisoning and executing those expressing contrary views.
The government employs harsh measures such as arbitrary detention, torture, and unfair trials to silence activists, journalists, and political opponents. International human rights organizations frequently condemn Iran’s crackdown on freedom of speech, assembly, and belief, highlighting the regime’s oppressive control over its citizens.