TEHRAN – A senior IRGC official has emphasized the importance of widespread public participation in the upcoming presidential election to prevent adversarial actions by the enemies of the nation.

Brigadier General Ali Fadavi, the second-in-command of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), said on Saturday that it is important to increase participation in the June 28 presidential election.

Urging the public to engage actively in the elections, Fadavi highlighted the numerous benefits of widespread voter turnout. "There is abundant good in maximum participation, and we must come forward, confident in the truth of God's promise," he said.

Reflecting on the past 45 years, Fadavi asserted that Iran had consistently confronted many challenges with resilience, resulting in the defeat and humiliation of its adversaries. "We have stood firm, confronting the enemy with defeat and humiliation, and have sacrificed 200,000 martyrs to defend our cherished homeland and the values of the Islamic Revolution," he declared.

He emphasized that robust participation in the electoral process is crucial in deterring enemy actions. "With maximum participation in the elections, the enemy would not dare to act against us," he affirmed.

He further praised the IRGC's unwavering commitment, noting significant achievements during the tenure of late President Ebrahim Raisi, and expressed hope for continuing his legacy. 

"The IRGC remains fully dedicated. Major initiatives were undertaken under Martyr Raisi’s presidency, and we aim to follow in his footsteps," he said.

He concluded by stressing the collective responsibility not only to vote but also to encourage others to participate in the elections. "It is our duty to not only cast our votes but also to motivate others to take part in the electoral process," he added.

Iran is gearing up for a snap presidential election scheduled for June 28, following the untimely death of President Ebrahim Raisi. Raisi perished in a tragic helicopter crash in northwestern Iran on May 19, which also claimed the lives of Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian and six other officials.

In the wake of this unexpected event, six candidates have been approved by Iran's top election supervisory body to run for the highest executive office. These candidates are actively campaigning across the country, utilizing both national television and public events to reach voters and present their platforms.

Voting will not only take place within Iran but also at designated polling stations worldwide, allowing overseas Iranians to participate in selecting the new president.