TEHRAN – Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Sunday that the era to stage coup d'état is gone, noting that problems can be resolved through “democracy” and “respect for votes of majority”.

“We are in a region where, unfortunately, some think can seize power by tank, plane and helicopter, and topple a government which has been elected by the people,” Rouhani said while addressing people in Kermanshah, western Iran.Rouhani was referring to a military coup attempt in Turkey by a faction of the Turkish military forces in Ankara late on Friday which was crumbled by forces loyal to the Turkish government. The coup attempt left more than 260 people killed.

He added that  problems can be resolved by “ballot boxes”.

Rouhani also said his administration will counter the issue of inflated salaries.

“The government of ‘prudence and hope’ will counter all the violations with the help of God,” he pointed out.

On July 6, Rouhani issued a statement saying that his government will counter corruption and nepotism at the administrative system until it is “eradicated”.

The president said in the statement that he will not waver in his determination to fight corruption with “anybody”.

NA/PA