Iran’s Khamenei downplays low election turnout

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei admitted on Wednesday that the low participation rate in the first round of presidential elections on Friday was "less than expected" after more than 60% refused to vote.

Despite evidence that many Iranians are deeply disenchanted with the Islamic government, Khamenei dismissed the idea that those abstaining are against the governing regime.

"Some people may dislike certain officials or even the Islamic system itself, just as they freely express these views, but the idea that everyone who did not vote is aligned with these individuals and this mindset is completely wrong," he said in a meeting with officials.

Official figures released by Iran's Interior Ministry put the turnout in the first round of election at 39.92 percent, the lowest recorded since the establishment of the Islamic Republic in 1979.

"Maybe they didn't participate in the elections because they had problems, were busy with work, were not in the mood, or simply didn't have the time," Khamenei said, expressing hope that the second round would see more enthusiastic participation.

Since the record low turnout in the March parliamentary elections, Khamenei has consistently attributed non-participation to "laziness," downplaying any deeper societal or political reasons.

Khamenei's rhetoric aims to frame voter apathy as a simple lack of effort rather than a response to underlying discontent or dissatisfaction with the government. A five-year-long economic crisis as well as ever-harsher government suppression of dissent have led to deep dissatisfaction among voters.

While casting his own ballot on Friday, Khamenei emphasized action over inaction. He urged, "Don't be lazy, don't neglect, don't underestimate; participate in all corners of the country."

In a speech leading up to the election last week, Khamenei highlighted the significance of voting, stating, "For us Iranians, voting day is a happy day. The 'Republic' in the Islamic Republic means that the presence of people in the system is integral."

He further questioned reluctance, asserting, "Why would there be doubt? It’s an easy thing to do. Why would anyone not do something that is free, easy, and not time-consuming but has many benefits? Participation is essential for the continuation of the establishment."

Nevertheless, Khamenei has not entirely abandoned hope that the populace will heed his call, even though the nation at large is aware of the sham nature of the polls, when only handpicked candidates were allowed to run amid government control of the media and hundreds of dissidents in prisons.

In a short statement published on his website, Khamenei said of the upcoming Friday voting: "The second round of the presidential election is crucial. Those who love Islam, the Islamic Republic, and the country's progress should demonstrate this by participating in the election."

His comments come amidst Iran's ongoing repression of dissenters. Since its establishment in 1979, the Islamic Republic has consistently violated human rights, often imprisoning and executing those expressing contrary views.

The government employs harsh measures such as arbitrary detention, torture, and unfair trials to silence activists, journalists, and political opponents. International human rights organizations frequently condemn Iran’s crackdown on freedom of speech, assembly, and belief, highlighting Iran's oppressive control over its citizens.