CNN — Iran’s snap presidential election will head to a second vote on Friday, with a reformist and conservative hardliner facing off to replace Ebrahim Raisi amid unprecedented voter apathy.
Following an inconclusive first round of votes where none of the initial candidates secured more than 50 percent, reformist Masoud Pezeshkian and ultraconservative Saeed Jalili emerged as the frontrunners. The slight lead by Pezeshkian reflects voter discontent in a country questioning its ruling clerical establishment.
Pezeshkian and Jalili represent opposite ends of Iran’s political spectrum, with the upcoming election holding significant implications for both domestic and international affairs. While Pezeshkian emphasizes engagement with the West and addressing poverty, Jalili stands firm on conservative policies.
Despite voter apathy in the first round, analysts note a potential shift in support towards Pezeshkian from some conservative factions, indicating a nuanced political landscape in Iran. The outcome of the second round is awaited with anticipation to see how it may influence Iran and its global relations.