Hawzah News Agency (Qom, Iran) – Speaking during his advanced jurisprudence course in Qom on Wednesday, April 19, Grand Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi, a Shia source of emulation, made some remarks on the recent US presidential elections as well as the upcoming election in Iran which is going to be held in May.

He asserted, “We’re about to hold the presidential election in Iran and we must attend it with much enthusiasm and sense of responsibility to send a clear message to our enemies. Our election is held in the Islamic Republic of Iran and the word Islamic in the title implies some crucial red lines that need to be observed during the whole process of elections in our country.”

 The Shia cleric further referred to the recent US’ presidential election as a scandal for the West adding, “There are no red lines in US elections hence so many lies, immoral rhetoric and accusations were displayed by the American candidates. However, we are living in the Islamic Republic of Iran; therefore our candidates as well as the people all have certain responsibilities regarding the upcoming elections.”

The senior scholar pointed out that Iran's elections serve as a test for both candidates and the nation; “People should not get involved in political games, they must choose the most qualified candidate to hold the office of president. Our candidates should be careful to avoid what the American candidates did during their campaigns and try to serve Iran the best they can.” Grand Ayatollah Makarem concluded.

End.