Preserve Security at Election Time

Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei said Iran's adversaries intend to provoke unrest to undermine its security as a prelude to their long-term plot of overthrowing the Islamic Republic, warning that those who act against national security during the election time would be strictly dealt with.

"Should anyone rise up against national security during the election period, they will receive a hard slap in the face," IRNA quoted Ayatollah Khamenei as saying. He made the statement in the commencement ceremony for graduates of Imam Hossein (PBUH) Military Academy in Tehran on Wednesday.

The presidential election is set for May 19, coinciding with city council and midterm parliamentary elections, with about 56 million people eligible to vote.

The campaign season for presidential contenders started on April 21 and candidates for the other two polls start their publicity activities today.

The Leader called on the bodies entrusted with protecting security to be on high alert before and after Election Day, and also advised presidential hopefuls to take into account national security considerations in their campaigns.

"Candidates should be careful not to activate religious, geographical, social, lingual and ethnic fault lines" and assist adversaries in implementing their incomplete project of disrupting Iran's security.

Ayatollah Khamenei advised presidential hopefuls to prioritize the economy and measures to improve people's livelihood. The Leader also urged contenders to highlight Iran's independence as well as the dignity and glory of the nation in their statements.  

"Iranians are a revolutionary and proud nation," he said, adding that candidates should not portray them as weak in the eyes of big powers.