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EDITOR IN CHIEF- ABDULLAH BIN SALIM AL SHUEILI

Ahmadinejad supports former deputy

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Tehran: Former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said on Wednesday he would support a long-time ally in May’s presidential election.


In his first press conference for four years, Ahmadinejad said he will back Hamid Baghaie, his former vice- president who headed the tourism board.


“I have no plans to present myself. I support Mr Baghaie as the best candidate,” said Ahmadinejad.


Baghaie was imprisoned for seven months in 2015 for reasons that were never made public.


Meanwhile, Tehran mayor Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Wednesday he would not stand for the presidency.


“I think all those who want to save this country from the economic and social crises must unite,” said Ghalibaf.


Some 3,000 officials are due to meet on Thursday to decide on a shortlist of five candidates.


Candidates must formally register between April 11 and 15, after which they are vetted by the Guardian Council, with a final list announced on April 27.


The election will be held on May 19. — AFP


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