Iran: Voting with Raisi’s legacy in mind

Herald Correspondent

Iranian literature has many expressions that depict the anguish of parting, described by some as the reed that laments, recounting tales of loss and separation.

In the book of Masnavi by Molana Rumi, through such literature, what Iranians know the most are the painful experiences that human go through separation.

Having lost key political and military figures, social giants and academics who had contributed to the continuities of the country’s values over the years, the nation is yet to heal from these tragic developments. These include the late commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards, General Qassem Soleimani, and his successor, Brigadier-General Esmail Qa’ani.

Yet tomorrow, bearing that pain, Iranians are facing a crucial opportunity to enhance the country’s power and influence in the region and beyond. The June 28 presidential election is also an opportunity to revitalise the Islamic Revolution, defend the resistance and honour the sacrifices made by the people’s martyrs.

The election is being held to replace the late President Ibrahim Raisi who martyred, while on duty with other compatriots on May 19. It comes after the citizens in this Islamic Republic endured heavy pain, hence are thriving to balance their grief, while embracing unity and stability.

One thing that is certain is that the voting exercise will be to extend the effective defence to the axis of resistance, promote Iran’s equal and balanced interaction with the world, and the deepening of relations with all countries, especially the neighbours.

Given Iran’s unique geopolitical, strategic and geographical position along with the country’s economic capabilities, countries in the region and beyond are keenly following the Friday elections, processes and results.

In the field of foreign policy and public diplomacy, Dr Raisi showed the forward approach of his government in the international arena, an approach that, in addition to taking into consideration national interests, also paid attention to the interests of the countries in the region.

One of the outstanding regional gestures was the practical attention he gave to the issue of Palestine and resistance, including the efforts to stop the crimes of the Israeli apartheid state against the oppressed Palestinians.

This, undoubtedly, played a key role in awakening world public opinion about these crimes. At a time of Europe’s ideological chaos when the world’s oppressors controlled what should be seen and heard, it was Iran’s Raisi who took it upon himself to convey the message of Palestinian freedom to the ears and hearts of the world.

These testimonies alone are sufficient for Dr Raisi’s place in history although Iranians still struggle to fully comprehend his absence, they aspire to shine like him domestically and internationally. His legacy internally and externally shifted the political, social and economic horizons of Iran through a profound sense of justice.

The biggest sense of justice that guided President Raisi regarded women and their importance in shaping foundational family values. He recognised the pivotal role that women play not only within the family unit, but also in the broader social and cultural spheres with forward-thinking perspectives.

President Raisi was also a man determined to serve. This media frame, within and outside Iran, is full of meaningful symbols for government employees as well as international individuals and officials. Before his death, he was inspecting a dam project in the country.

The interpretation of his death had to be interpreted as a testament to the tireless determination of a nation and its representative for progress. Both supporters and opponents acknowledged his sincere and dedicated efforts for the relentless management of affairs and saw him as a symbol of persistent effort for the country and its people.

In Raisi’s nearly three years of his presidency, he consistently showed up in flood and earthquake-stricken areas, as well as other crisis situations. This unpretentious presence became a powerful symbol for combating the laziness entrenched within bureaucratic institutions.

Dr Raisi’s leadership demonstrated the ideal relationship between the people and their leaders, emphasising justice, honesty, unity and service. His sacrifice continue to be seen as catalysts for strengthening Iran’s resolve and revitalising the spirit of the Iranian people to continue their pursuit of justice and resistance against oppression.

The June 28 presidential election in Iran are taking place in sensitive conditions, because Britain, France and the USA are also going for elections.

This also happens after Russia and India also had their elections. In the midst of some ongoing and existing international crises, this election is decisive.

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