Ali Ardeshir Larijani, born on June 3, 1958, is a prominent politician, philosopher, and former military officer in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He is widely recognized for his significant contributions to Iranian politics, having served as the Speaker of the Parliament of Iran from 2008 to 2020. Since 2020, he has been a member of the Expediency Discernment Council, a role he previously held from 1997 to 2008. Larijani is also a candidate for the 2024 presidential election in Iran, marking his third bid for the presidency after his previous attempts in 2005 and 2021.Ali Larijani was born in Najaf, Iraq, to parents who were deeply rooted in religious scholarship. His father, Ayatollah Mirza Hashem Amoli, was a leading cleric. The family hailed from Amol in Mazandaran Province, Iran. The Larijani family moved to Najaf in 1931 due to political pressures from Reza Shah, the then ruler of Iran. They returned to Iran in 1961, setting the stage for Ali Larijani’s future in politics.
A good presidential candidate should possess a blend of strong leadership qualities, including decisiveness, integrity, and resilience to navigate complex crises and withstand political pressures. They need exceptional communication skills to articulate clear visions, inspire diverse constituencies, and negotiate effectively with domestic and international stakeholders. Deep policy expertise across economics, foreign affairs, and social issues is essential, coupled with a track record of practical experience in governance or related fields to demonstrate competence. Charisma and empathy help in building broad coalitions and connecting with voters on a personal level, while adaptability allows them to evolve with changing societal needs. Ultimately, a commitment to ethical principles, transparency, and the greater good over personal ambition distinguishes truly effective candidates from mere opportunists.
