Statement by Mohammad Khatami: If the proposal of the Reform Front is realized, I will participate in the elections.
Statement by Seyyed Mohammad Khatami regarding elections and democracy, confirming the electoral strategy of the Reform Front: If the proposal of the Front is realized, I will participate in the elections.
According to Jamaran, the text of the statement by Hojatoleslam Seyyed Mohammad Khatami is as follows:
I have said many times, and I will say again, that the establishment of a democratic system, which is the long-standing desire of the Iranian nation and opens the way to a better future, is achievable through elections, provided that the elections are fair and competitive, and the people, not the rulers, are the ones who choose. We are still far from reaching standard elections.
However, considering the internal and external circumstances, participating in the elections might be justified, even if the ideal electoral conditions do not fully exist.
This humble servant of God, who has always believed that one must be alongside the people and with the people, seeking their welfare and well-being, confirms the electoral strategy of the Reform Front: If the proposal of the Front is realized, I will participate in the elections.
Regarding the desired candidate, while emphasizing the necessity of possessing general qualities, especially honesty, integrity, and the determination and ability to serve the nation sincerely, I find it useful to mention a few points.
1. The desired candidate must be committed to reforms and transformation in belief and action, striving for reform in all structural and strategic areas.
At this moment in time, although fundamental transformation is out of reach and moving towards it faces many difficulties, the mere belief in transformation and reform will lead to positive and constructive interaction with the pillars of governance for the benefit of the people. Utilizing all available resources and capacities, which are not many, to achieve positive transformation in all economic, political, scientific, and cultural areas will increase hope for gradual improvement of conditions and reduce concerns about worsening situations.
2. A correct understanding of social changes, especially the demands of women, youth, and the middle and lower sections of society, particularly the less privileged, on one hand, and preventing the decline of economic, social, and human capital, which unfortunately has been weakening day by day, along with persistent efforts to improve the living conditions and livelihood of people with a favorable economic approach towards comprehensive and sustainable development with justice, on the other hand, is an unavoidable priority.
3. The major ailment of our society is the lack of wisdom in governance and poor management in facing existing and upcoming challenges and crises.
The desired candidate must provide the groundwork for wisdom and stop foolishness in all affairs and levels, particularly relying on the expert, scholarly, and professional abilities of the country and commitment to collective wisdom.
Among other things, attention to cultural, political, and scientific approaches in all areas of governance and actions to lift unjust sanctions and enable the country to benefit from international facilities for comprehensive development through the choice of a rational, active, and balanced foreign policy, and enhancing Iran’s position and the dignity of Iranians in the international community, and optimal use of Iran’s strategic position and historical-cultural capabilities in favor of national interests is a requirement of wisdom. I hope everyone, especially the officials and those in charge of the elections, will understand the current sensitive situation of the country and the extent and depth of public dissatisfaction, and provide an electoral environment where all factions and different sections can see their desired candidate on the scene, God willing. Seyyed Mohammad Khatami, 16th of Khordad, 1403.
