Hamid Reza Jalaei-Pour: The People's Vote Matters

As the date of the presidential election approaches, the debate over whether to boycott or participate in the elections intensifies. Proponents of participation list their reasons for voting, while supporters of a boycott articulate their reasons for abstaining. Radio Farda has attempted to gather the views of various political figures regarding voting or abstaining, seeking responses to criticisms directed at both positions. Hamid Reza Jalaei-Pour, a prominent reformist figure, political sociology professor, member of the Central Council of the Participation Party, and journalist in Tehran, explains in the following interview why he believes participation in the elections is necessary. This interview was recorded before the start of the election campaign, with the clarification that Radio Farda does not support any specific group or party in the upcoming elections and is neither in favor of a boycott nor participation. Jalaei-Pour argues that there are several reasons to participate in the elections, recalling past experiences where non-participation led to negative outcomes, such as the election of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as mayor due to low voter turnout. He emphasizes that participation can lead to positive changes, citing the 2012 elections where people's engagement helped create a parliament that was not dominated by hardliners. He believes that the current political environment, with some improvements under President Rouhani, warrants participation to continue the progress made. Jalaei-Pour acknowledges the disillusionment stemming from the 2009 elections but asserts that the majority of people still wish to participate and make an impact. He mentions that recent polls indicate over 65% of people are inclined to vote, and he predicts that participation could exceed 70%. He argues that the political process is ongoing and that voting is essential for the advancement of democracy and civil rights in Iran, despite existing challenges such as political prisoners and restrictions on freedoms. He concludes by reiterating that the people's vote is significant and that abstaining would only lead to worse outcomes.