Ali Tajernia, a reformist representative in the Sixth Parliament, said that “influential people who play a role in the power structure” have sent a message to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani not to run in the upcoming presidential election.
In an interview with Arman newspaper, Mr. Tajernia emphasized: “It is heard from all corners that some are sending messages to Mr. Rouhani, directly and indirectly, to dissuade him from continuing his presidency in the second phase.”
The former MP did not provide further explanation about those who, he said, sent a "message" to the Iranian president not to run.
In his interview, Ali Tajernia considered “the most important strategy of the fundamentalists” to be to “wear down and discourage Hassan Rouhani from continuing his presidency.” He added: “That is why they are trying to use all their potential and means to put pressure on Mr. Rouhani’s government.”
Hassan Rouhani's relations with fundamentalists critical of the 11th government have been strained for some time, especially after the comprehensive nuclear agreement between Iran and world powers.
During this time, a range of appointees of the Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran have severely criticized Mr. Rouhani's performance in various fields, including foreign policy.
Iran's next presidential election will be held next year.
