As the clock ticked towards 3 pm Tehran time, reports from polling stations across the nation painted a concerning picture of remarkably low voter turnout.

Even with the warmer weather and Friday prayers, a noticeable contrast to previous years emerged as election officials shared their observations with the election headquarters. Some suggested that sending journalists later in the evening might capture a potentially higher voter presence.

A particularly striking report from a polling station official in Baharestan, Tehran province, highlighted, “I have visited all the polling stations, and the turnout is very low.” This sentiment echoed across multiple districts, prompting election officials to issue instructions to keep the extent of the election boycott discreet. They mandated the confidentiality of ballot paper usage and turnout statistics, discouraging the transmission of such reports even by telephone.

In an attempt to project enthusiasm for the elections, the regime deployed its IRGC, Basij, police, and other forces to certain polling stations, capturing scenes for state television broadcast. However, the visible extent of the boycott persisted, with even foreign journalists allowed into the country emphasizing the people’s non-participation, a noteworthy departure from the norm of central Tehran polling stations being busier.

Reports flooded in from various regions, including Tehran, Karaj, Torbat Heydariyeh, Doroud, Sanandaj, Qazvin, and many more, indicating minimal voter participation. In some areas, there were reports of no turnout at all.

Foreign media, including the Associated Press, reported on the discrepancy between official claims and the reality on the ground. Despite calls from Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the capital’s polling stations appeared thinly populated. Heavy security measures, including a notable police presence, further underscored the unusual atmosphere surrounding the elections.

Jahan Sanat newspaper, aligned with the regime, admitted on February 29, “The 12th Majlis elections are being held while there is no sign of excitement about the elections in society, especially in large cities. According to polls, half of the people do not even know what elections are going to be held in Esfand (March).

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