TEHRAN - Mohammad Mokhber, Iran's acting president, has praised the Iranian people for their participation in the June 28 presidential election, asserting that the upcoming runoff vote will prove a disappointment to the Islamic Republic's detractors. 

Mokhber made these remarks on Saturday, following the initial election round held on Friday. The election will see a runoff between Saeed Jalili and Masoud Pezeshkian on July 5th to determine the successor to the late President Ebrahim Raisi.

The acting president lauded the citizens' participation, calling it "another manifestation of religious democracy." 

“I commend you, the Iranian people, for your informed participation in this crucial moment in our country's history. Your active engagement reflects a profound sense of religious democracy and a commitment to upholding the values of our Islamic Republic. As emphasized by the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, the strength, dignity, and honor of our nation depend on the continued presence and participation of its people,” he said in a statement. 

The acting president further asserted that the turnout in the runoff vote will undoubtedly dismay those opposed to the Islamic Republic.

“Undoubtedly, the continuation of this participation and informed presence of the nation in the second round of the national event of the fourteenth presidential election will cause more despair for the enemies of the country and the sacred system of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and will strengthen the power and hope of the supporters of the ideals of the Islamic system worldwide,” he said. 

Lastly, Mokhber expressed gratitude to all individuals and organizations involved in the electoral process.

“I am grateful to all the people, various political groups, esteemed religious figures, and those who have played a responsible role in encouraging people to participate in the country's political fate. I also appreciate the efforts of all those involved, especially the Ministry of Interior, the Guardian Council, the country's election headquarters, executive bodies, supervision and inspection bodies, governors, military forces, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence agencies in ensuring the security of polling stations.”