In the wake of the recent sham elections in Iran, a series of developments have starkly highlighted the political and social landscape of the country. The election, marked by widespread boycotts and minimal participation, has left the ruling regime facing a legitimacy crisis. This situation raises pressing questions about the ability of the regime’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, to navigate through this tumultuous period.
The electoral event was broadly ignored by the Iranian people, with only a small minority comprising regime loyalists, the Basij, the Revolutionary Guards, and other armed forces partaking. According to reports gathered by the network of PMOI activists inside Iran, turnout was no more than 8.2%. This act of widespread boycott underlines a significant disillusionment with the electoral process, perceived by many as a mere show rather than a genuine democratic exercise. Government publications themselves have acknowledged that the individuals who ostensibly represented the electorate in this process are, in fact, representatives of only a small fraction of society, further undermining the election’s credibility.
Notably, Tehran, the capital and a pivotal city in the country’s political dynamics, saw the lowest voter turnout. A considerable portion of the ballots cast were either blank or invalid, suggesting that even those who participated did so under duress or compulsion. The culmination of these observations points to a profound legitimacy crisis facing the theocratic regime, a crisis that has its roots in the early days of the mullahs’ rule and has deepened over the years.
The question now is whether Khamenei, perceived as weakened by the electoral setback, possesses the capability to address the escalating crisis of governance. The year 2022 saw a nationwide uprising that lasted for several months. The regime managed to quell the protests, yet the dissatisfaction and dissent that fueled it remain unaddressed. With living conditions deteriorating daily, Khamenei emerges from the election diminished, facing internal disarray and external pressures that increasingly isolate his regime.
Internally, the regime is witnessing unprecedented divisions. Recent events, such as the resignation of the judiciary’s deputy due to corruption revelations and infighting within the state’s broadcasting authority, signal a significant internal turmoil. Externally, the regime is becoming known as the root cause of the ongoing crises, thereby isolating it further on the international stage.
The aftermath of the election and the national celebration of Chaharshanbe Suri have emboldened the Iranian people’s belief in their collective power and ability to challenge the regime. This year’s Chaharshanbe Suri was marked by widespread participation, particularly among the youth, who are increasingly at the forefront of resistance efforts. Political slogans intermingled with the traditional fire celebrations, underscoring the people’s yearning for change and resistance against oppression.
The ongoing protests and defiance of the regime’s repressive measures underscores the resilience and hope of the Iranian people, who, despite severe crackdowns, remain committed to their quest for freedom and change.
In light of this tense atmosphere, manifestations of resistance were not limited only to popular protests, but also included specific activities organized by Resistance Units inside the country. The Resistance Units, composed of young men and women committed to the struggle against tyranny, carried out activities to keep the flame of resistance alive in every corner of Iran, expressing their categorical rejection of the mullahs’ rule and their continued call for freedom and justice.
The increasing activity of these units reflects not only creativity and courage in the face of tyranny, but also a firm determination to achieve radical change in the country. As internal and external pressures continue, it becomes clear that the Iranian regime not only faces many challenges in maintaining its grip, but also faces a growing popular will that is determinedly seeking to weave its future into its own hands.
