Iran’s upcoming presidential election has witnessed a surprising candidate, Mostafa Pourmohammadi, who is known for his conservative background but has been advocating for reformist ideas. This unexpected shift has caused discomfort among traditional principlists and raised eyebrows among reformists.
While Masoud Pezeshkian stands as the sole reformist candidate, Pourmohammadi has stolen the spotlight with his bold statements against the morality police, support for negotiations with the US, and criticism of social media censorship. His recent appearance on state TV with his daughter, a senior adviser holding a doctorate in economics, further emphasized his progressive stance.
Who is Pourmohammadi?
Pourmohammadi, a veteran in security and justice roles, has worked under different administrations, displaying a mix of conservative and moderate ideologies. Despite his involvement in controversial activities in the past, he is currently positioning himself as a moderate conservative figure in the political arena.
‘The phenomenon’
Pourmohammadi’s unexpected surge in popularity has labeled him as “the phenomenon” of the election, challenging traditional conservative candidates and attracting votes from both reformists and moderates. His participation in the recent televised debate provided a platform for him to voice his views on the economic challenges faced by Iran, emphasizing the need for internal solutions rather than depending on foreign interventions.