On Wednesday, April 5, the Health Minister of Hassan Rouhani's government, Hassan Qazizadeh Hashemi, sent a letter to the head of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), Ali Asgari, protesting the broadcast of his name and image as a potential candidate for the 2017 presidential election. In his letter, as reported by the government's information website, Hashemi referred to 'unofficial and sometimes targeted speculations' by certain media and social networks regarding the presidential election, emphasizing that he has 'no other goal than fulfilling the serious responsibility of preserving and promoting the health of fellow citizens.' In this letter, he requested that the media only broadcast 'accurate news' that would lead to maximum public participation and a lawful and ethical election. On Thursday, the potential final decision of Ebrahim Raisi is expected to be announced. While media close to the principlists continue to report requests from various political groups for Raisi to enter the presidential election, no official news of his final decision has been released yet. A meeting of the Supervisory Board for the 12th presidential election is scheduled for Thursday, April 6, and Raisi's presence or absence as a member of this board could indicate his final decision. Nevertheless, the 'Amadnews' website reported, citing the spokesperson for the Guardian Council, that Raisi's definitive decision will be officially announced in the news media on Thursday. Previously, the Shargh newspaper had announced Friday as the day for Raisi's announcement. The newspaper wrote on Tuesday: 'While the Popular Front of the Revolutionary Forces (JAMNA) is set to announce its five final candidates for the election on Thursday, it has been said that Ebrahim Raisi will announce his decision regarding his candidacy on April 18, one day later.' Raisi has not yet responded to requests for his candidacy; however, despite his silence, his campaign activity has been more vigorous than other principlist candidates, and a campaign titled 'Raisi Come' has been launched on social media to persuade him to participate in the elections. Raisi has also traveled to some regions, including Khuzestan province, and immediately after his visit, 'hundreds of tons of flour' were distributed in this province. According to the Ministry of Interior, on April 11, the order to start the elections will be issued by the Minister of Interior, and from that day, the executive board will be formed by the governorates, and registration for presidential election candidates will begin. The presidential election and the fifth round of city and village council elections will be held on May 19, 2017.
Health Minister Protests Announcement of His Candidacy on State TV
Health Minister Hassan Qazizadeh Hashemi protested his potential candidacy announcement on state TV, emphasizing his focus on public health. Meanwhile, Ebrahim Raisi's decision regarding his candidacy for the presidential election remains uncertain, with various political factions urging him to run. This situation highlights the ongoing political maneuvering ahead of the upcoming elections in Iran.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Health Minister Hassan Qazizadeh Hashemi protested the announcement of his potential candidacy for the 2017 presidential election on state TV. Meanwhile, Ebrahim Raisi's decision on running for president remains uncertain, with various factions urging him to run.
- Hashemi emphasized his focus on public health and requested accurate media reporting.
- Raisi's decision is anticipated, with significant campaign activity despite no official announcement.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Iran's presidential elections are a critical event, often reflecting internal power struggles between reformist and conservative factions.
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