Statement by Official Opposition Leader, Tom Mulcair, on Iranian presidential election

The Iranian presidential election showed once again that despite the regime's repression, the people of Iran continue to pursue change at every opportunity.

The people of Iran used these elections to send a clear signal to the world and to the regime that they reject extremism.

We share global concerns that the political and electoral processes in Iran remain deeply undemocratic. Candidates were pre-vetted by a secretive committee appointed by the Supreme Leader, opposition activists remain in prison, and press freedom is tightly restricted. But the outcome of the elections matter.

We urge the government of Iran to use this moment as an opportunity to set the country on a new path for the future – one that respects the democratic aspirations of the people of Iran. In particular, we call on Iran to honour its international obligations and engage constructively with our allies in P5+1 to agree to a diplomatic solution that will fully address the international community’s grave concerns about Iran’s nuclear program.

We also call the government to respond to the democratic demands of its citizens, release all political prisoners, build constructive relationships with the international community, and fully respect the political and human rights of all Iranians.

We continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Iran in their pursuit of peace and freedom.