Iran Mandates Financial Transparency for Parliamentary By-Election Campaigns
Tehran, Iran – Iran’s Country’s Election Headquarters has announced a crucial directive requiring all candidates in upcoming parliamentary by-elections to designate a dedicated bank account solely for campaign expenditures. This measure, aimed at bolstering financial transparency and oversight in the electoral process, underscores the nation’s commitment to robust electoral governance.
New Electoral Directive Issued
The announcement, disseminated via Notice No. 17 from the Country’s Election Headquarters, stipulates that candidates vying for seats in the 12th term of the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Parliament) by-elections must adhere to Article 7 of the Law on Transparency and Supervision of Funding for Electoral Activities. This legal framework necessitates clear accountability for campaign finances.
Prospective candidates are now required to visit an authorized bank branch to either open a new account or designate an existing one exclusively for their electoral activities. The account number must then be registered within the official registration system during the candidate’s application process.
Key Requirements for Candidates
The directive applies to by-elections in several key constituencies across the country, including:
- Tabriz, Azarshahr, and Osku
- Bostanabad
- Bandar Anzali
- Bandar Abbas, Qeshm, Abu Musa, Hajiabad, and Khamir
- Naqadeh and Oshnavieh
This procedural step ensures that all financial transactions related to electoral campaigns are channeled through a singular, traceable account, facilitating easier monitoring and compliance with national financial regulations.
Reinforcing Electoral Integrity
The implementation of Article 7 reflects a proactive approach by the Iranian electoral body to strengthen the integrity and public trust in the parliamentary election process. By mandating dedicated campaign accounts and requiring their registration, the authorities aim to enhance the transparency of financial flows during election periods, thereby promoting accountability among candidates and ensuring a level playing field. This initiative highlights ongoing efforts to refine and uphold the fairness of democratic practices within the country’s political framework.
