Elections in Iran

Elections in Iran are called entekhabat. They provide a public role in choosing several officeholders, but they operate inside the constitutional structure of the Islamic Republic. Citizens elect the president, who heads the executive branch. If no presidential candidate receives the required level of support in the first round, the process can include a second round between leading candidates. Citizens also elect members of the Majles, Iran’s national parliament. Parliamentary contests are organized by electoral districts, so voters choose representatives connected to particular geographic areas and communities. The Assembly of Experts is another elected national body. Its members are religious jurists, and the body has the constitutional responsibility to select and supervise the Supreme Leader. City and village council elections concern local government. These councils address defined local matters and take part in selecting and overseeing municipal leadership. People seeking elected office must register and pass the applicable eligibility process. For major national elections, the Guardian Council plays a central role in examining candidates, which limits who can appear on the final ballot. Election administration includes registration, campaigning, voting, counting, announcing results, and handling objections through official channels. Exact procedures can differ by election, so voters and candidates must follow the instructions issued for that particular contest. Elections can influence executive priorities, parliamentary debate, and local administration. Their limits include candidate screening, restricted powers of elected offices, and the strong role of institutions that are not directly elected by the general public.