TEHRAN – The speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, has pledged full support from Iranian lawmakers to assist President-elect Masoud Pezeshkian and his upcoming administration in effectively governing the nation.

Qalibaf made the remarks after Iranian MPs met with Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei on Sunday. “The esteemed Leader of the Islamic Revolution emphasized the importance of constructive cooperation between the government and parliament,” the speaker wrote on his X account, adding, “We declare that the parliament views the achievements of the president-elect and his administration as its own accomplishments. We are committed to providing our utmost support to assist the government in its endeavors.”  

Prior to their meeting with Iran's Leader, the lawmakers convened a session at the parliament building. Pezeshkian, who served as an MP for four terms and was still an MP when he decided to run for president in Iran's recent snap elections, made a surprise appearance during the session and was warmly welcomed by his former colleagues and the speaker.

After thanking Pezeshkian for his surprise visit, Qalibaf highlighted the significance of addressing the reduced voter participation in the recent presidential election. 

During the first and second rounds of Iran's snap presidential elections, held 40 days after President Ebrahim Raisi's sudden passing on May 19, voter turnout was 40% and 50% respectively. Typically, Iran's presidential election sees an average turnout of around 60%. Analysts attribute the lower participation to the disillusionment of many traditional reformist voters who remain dissatisfied with perceived shortcomings during President Hassan Rouhani's two terms in office.

He stressed that while the election demonstrated the deep belief of the Islamic Republic system in people's participation, it also conveyed important messages about decreased voter turnout. "Elections are a political thermometer of society and an indicator that shows the reality to the officials and political figures. The lack of inclination of a significant portion of the people to exercise their voting rights is also a reality that should alert the politicians."

He emphasized the need for a thorough examination of the reasons for reduced participation and urged for decisive actions to resolve this issue. Qalibaf pointed out that leveraging the potential for change created as a result of the presidential election to address the reasons for reduced participation, especially in solving people's economic issues, is crucial.

"The hope that has arisen in the voters for the winning candidate is a good opportunity that can be used for the progress of the country," Qalibaf said. "At the same time, we must be careful not to let the concerns of the 14 million people who did not vote for the winning candidate make them disappointed."

Qalibaf emphasized that increasing motivation for participation and addressing people's problems should be the primary goal. He also highlighted the responsibility of the elected president in this regard and called for a collaborative effort from all officials to create an environment for sustainable public participation.

“Joint effort needed to resolve problems”

The newly elected president of Iran also delivered a speech during the session at the request of the parliament speaker. Standing behind the podium, Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing the country's challenges.

"I didn't intend to speak in the parliament today. I came here to express my gratitude and to affirm that we must work together to solve the country's problems hand in hand," Pezeshkian stated, highlighting the need for cooperation over conflict.

He underscored the significance of responsiveness to the people's needs, stating, "My entire effort is to be accountable to the people. With the people's votes and your support, I will strive to address their problems and alleviate their difficulties."

The president-elect invoked a Quranic perspective on leadership, emphasizing the importance of piety and integrity in governance. "If money, position, or power does not deceive us, we can speak the truth and be allies of the oppressed. We must strive for justice and fairness in society," he declared.

Reflecting on the recent election turnout, President-elect Pezeshkian expressed gratitude to the Iranian people for their participation. "Despite all the propaganda, our dear people came to the ballot boxes and silenced those who doubted their engagement in the electoral process," he noted.

Concluding his speech, President-elect Pezeshkian reiterated his commitment to serving the people and upholding their trust. "May God help us not to be ashamed. Together, we can tackle the country’s problems and issues, and work towards a brighter future," he affirmed.