A week from now, Iranians will vote in a presidential election that will decide whether or not to address urgent economic challenges and rules requiring the headscarf to cover oneself.
On June 28, Iranians will cast their votes for one of six candidates—five conservatives and one relative reformist—to replace Ebrahim Raisi, who passed away in a helicopter accident last month.
Iran is dealing with foreign sanctions, economic constraints, and the implementation of the mandatory headscarf policy for women at the time of the election.
“They promise change, but won’t do much,” said Hamid Habibi, a 54-year-old shop owner at Tehran’s bustling Grand Bazar.
“I’ve watched the debates and campaigns; they speak beautifully but need to back their words with action,” he said.
Even so, Habibi intends to cast a ballot the next week.
In their two debates, the contenders promised to address the financial issues facing the 85 million citizens of the nation.
“The economic situation is deteriorating daily, and I don’t foresee any improvements,” said Fariba, a 30-year-old who runs an online store.“Regardless of who wins, our lives won’t change,” she said.
