Ahmadinejad Seeks Comeback After Raisi's Death

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Ahmadinejad Eyes Presidential Comeback After Raisi’s Tragic Death

DUBAI, June 2 (Reuters) – Iran’s hardline former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad Comeback is making a surprising bid to return to the presidential office. This development follows the untimely death of current President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash last month. Ahmadinejad who led Iran from 2005 to 2013, has officially registered to run in the upcoming June 28 election, as reported by Iran’s state television on Sunday.

Political Vetting Awaits

Ahmadinejad’s return to politics is not guaranteed. The powerful Guardian Council, which is responsible for vetting candidates, will release the list of those qualified to run on June 11. This cleric-led body has previously barred Ahmadinejad from participating in the 2017 election, citing a warning from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei that his candidacy was “not in his interest and that of the country.”

Historical Tensions

Ahmadinejad’s Comeback political career has been marked by significant tension with Iran’s ruling establishment. After his presidency, a notable rift developed between him and Ayatollah Khamenei, primarily due to Ahmadinejad’s outspoken calls for checks on the Supreme Leader’s ultimate authority. This tension escalated in 2018 when Ahmadinejad openly criticized Khamenei and advocated for “free” elections in a rare public letter.

Legacy of Controversy

Ahmadinejad’s presidency is often remembered for its controversial moments. His 2009 re-election, which was marred by allegations of electoral fraud, led to widespread protests. These demonstrations were brutally suppressed by security forces, including the elite Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), resulting in dozens of deaths and hundreds of arrests. Despite the turmoil, Khamenei supported Ahmadinejad during this period, a stance that was crucial in maintaining his presidency.

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A New Chapter?

Ahmadinejad’s potential comeback raises many questions about Iran’s political future. His past affiliation with the Revolutionary Guards and his contentious relationship with the Supreme Leader add layers of complexity to his candidacy. As the election date approaches, the Guardian Council’s decision on his eligibility will be a critical moment, potentially reshaping the landscape of Iranian politics.

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Election Context

This election comes at a pivotal time for Iran, with Raisi’s unexpected death leaving a power vacuum. The June 28 vote is not just a routine political event but a crucial turning point for the country. The candidates who make it past the Guardian Council’s scrutiny will face the task of steering Iran through its current challenges, both domestically and internationally.

Ahmadinejad’s re-entry into the political arena could signal a shift in the country’s direction, depending on how his candidacy is received by both the electorate and the ruling clerics. As the nation waits for June 11, the political tension in Iran continues to build, with many eyes watching to see if Ahmadinejad will indeed be allowed to run and, if so, what impact his participation will have on the election’s outcome.

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