TEHRAN – The Constitutional Council on Tuesday started its vetting of candidates for the June 28 presidential election. 

The council’s spokesperson Hadi Tahan Nazif emphasized the election watchdog body is committed to conducting the vetting process within the stipulated legal timeframe. 

He highlighted the provision for an additional five-day period if needed. 

"Our goal is to complete the vetting within the initial five days, but we will extend it if necessary," the council spokesman stated.

Tahan Nazif assured that the results will be promptly announced once the qualifications of the candidates are studied.

Iran is holding a snap presidential election following the tragic helicopter crash on May 19, which resulted in the martyrdom of President Raisi, the foreign minister, and their entourage.

The president and his entourage are called “martyrs of service”. Their helicopter crashed after they inaugurated a join Iran-the Republic of Azerbaijan dam over the Aras River.

Vice-President Mohammad Mokhber was appointed as interim president and Ali Bagheri Kani as acting foreign minister following the event. 

80 figures nominate to run for president

Late on Monday, Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi announced that 80 figures have fielded candidacy for the presidential elections. 

The candidates are mostly current and former ministers or parliamentarians.

Several heavyweight politicians have joined the race for the June presidential election.

On Monday, the newly appointed Speaker of the Parliament Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf officially registered his candidacy at the election headquarters. He stated that revolutionary students, entrepreneurs, and various elites had urged him to participate in the election.

Also on Monday, former First Vice President Es’haq Jahangiri fielded his candidacy, emphasizing his commitment to correcting past mistakes and creating new opportunities for the country. Jahangiri said he had entered the electoral race to implement these changes.

On Sunday, former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad also registered as a candidate. He mentioned that he has been in constant touch with a wide spectrum of the Iranian populace, addressing their problems and concerns.
 
“Candidates had the chance to present their plans”

Vahidi cited recent directives from the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Khamenei, as crucial guidance for officials and candidates.

In a televised speech on Monday, commemorating the 35th anniversary of Imam Khomeini’s demise, Ayatollah Khamenei praised the significant turnout at the funeral processions for the “Martyrs of Service,” describing it as a testament to the Iranian nation's resilience.

Minister Vahidi acknowledged the orderly registration process, noting that candidates had the chance to present their plans briefly. He expressed hope that the upcoming election would meet the expectations of the people following President Raisi's passing.

Vahidi highlighted Ayatollah Khamenei's emphasis on maintaining a moral and healthy election atmosphere. 

Minister Vahidi concluded by reaffirming that the nation remains on the right path despite the recent tragedy, with the Assembly of Experts and the parliament scheduled to commence as planned.