Prominent figure and right-hand man to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Al-Khamenei, Vahid Haghanian has expressed his intention to contest in the Iranian Presidential Election stated in June.
Haghanian is identified as a prominent figure and staunch loyalist of Al-Khamenei and has been instrumental in the implementation of the Supreme Leader policy.
Haghanian informed reporters after his registration, saying vying for the position is based on “experience from serving 45 years in the presidency and the leader’s office”.
Despite being a prominent member, Haghanian has been under global scrutiny in 2019 after the United States Treasury listed him among others to be sanctioned within the Supreme Leader’s office.
Dubbed “Al-Khamenei’s right-hand”, the influence of Haghanian in Iran’s politics cemented his status owing to a duly close association with the Leader which further put him in a pole position for the post.
Haghanian has held different positions under the Iranian regime and remained one of the loyal cabinet members trusted by Al-Khamenei in discharging duties on his behalf.
Haghanian will be competing with Mayor of Tehran Alireza Zakani, Masoud Pezeshkian, Parviz Fattah, and acting President Mohammed Mokhber among a host of others.