Ebrahim Raisi: Iran's Hardline Cleric Elected President

Rise to Power

Ebrahim Raisi, born on December 14, 1960, is an Iranian cleric, prosecutor, and politician who has served as Iran's head of the judiciary since 2019. A hardline cleric close to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Raisi was elected Iran's president in the June 2021 presidential election.

Clerical Background

Raisi was born in the eastern Iranian city of Mashhad in 1960 to a deeply religious family. His father was a cleric, and Raisi himself studied Islamic law and became a judge at a young age. He rose through the ranks of the judiciary, holding positions such as deputy prosecutor-general and head of the General Inspection Organization.

2021 Presidential Election

In the 2021 presidential election, Raisi emerged as the frontrunner among a field of seven candidates. His main rivals included former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and former Vice President Mostafa Aghpour. Raisi's campaign focused on law and order, anti-corruption, and economic stability.

Victory and Controversies

Raisi won the election with a large margin, receiving over 60% of the vote. However, the election was marred by allegations of voter fraud and suppression, with many opposition candidates withdrawing from the race before the vote.

Conclusion

Ebrahim Raisi's victory in the 2021 Iranian presidential election marks a significant shift in the country's political landscape. As a hardline cleric with close ties to the Supreme Leader, Raisi's presidency is expected to further consolidate conservative control over Iranian politics and society. His election also raises concerns about the potential for increased repression and a further deterioration in relations with the international community. Only time will tell the full impact of Raisi's presidency on Iran and the wider region.