Calm, secure Iran preparing for polls: Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei

Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei addresses a group of people in Tehran, May 17, 2017. (Photo by khamenei.ir)

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says Iran is preparing for its presidential elections in a secure and calm environment at the heart of a region rife with unrest.

“Look at the regional countries. Is there any place where there is no insecurity? In this insecure assortment, the Islamic Republic is preparing for elections with security and calm,” Ayatollah Khamenei said at a Wednesday meeting with people from different walks of life in Tehran.

“This is very valuable,” the Leader said, adding that people were awaiting the event with “passion.”

All administrative, monitoring and security bodies are at work to safeguard the May 19 elections, the Leader said.

Ayatollah Khamenei said these organizations have the nation’s trust, but still urged them to exercise utmost care and help protect people’s votes.

“Some may seek to commit fraud in this midst. The Iranian people have enemies. In the face of the enemy, the people’s countenance should indicate will power, conviction, self-confidence, calm and equilibrium,” the Leader added.