Six Armenian Candidates Compete in Iran's Election Race

Iran will hold the elections for the 11th Majlis (Parliament) on February 21. The Iranian Majlis has 290 members, of which 5 represent religious minorities. Karin Khanlaryan, a current member of the Iranian Parliament, stated in an interview with Armenpress that the competition to enter the parliament is quite significant, with an estimated 50 candidates vying for each available seat. Alongside political factions, independent figures are also in the race.

The Armenian community is allocated two seats in the parliament. Khanlaryan noted that one seat is for Southern Armenians, while the other is for Northern Armenians. “In the northern region, four Armenian candidates are competing for one seat: Ara Shahverdyan, Albert Poghosyan, Aris Shahbazyan, and Sevan Sohrabyan. In the southern region, Robert Beglaryan and Emin Hovsepyan are contesting for one seat,” said Khanlaryan.

During this period, Armenian candidates have met with voters to present their programs, emphasizing the preservation of community structures, protection of rights, resolution of community issues, and recognition of the Armenian Genocide.

The total number of eligible voters for the parliamentary elections is 58 million.