Uncertainty Surrounds Iran’s Medical Council Elections
As the date for the Iranian Medical Council elections draws near, ambiguity remains regarding whether the elections will be held electronically or in person. The medical community is calling for greater transparency in the organization and logistics of the process.
According to Salamat News, citing Mehr News Agency, the upcoming elections for the Iranian Medical Council are still shrouded in uncertainty over how voting will take place. Despite extensive discussions over recent months, no definitive decision has been made on whether the process will be conducted electronically or through traditional in-person voting.
Mohammad Raeeszadeh, President of the Medical Council, stated that the final decision on the voting method lies with the Executive Committee under the supervision of the Ministry of Health. “The matter is currently under review in professional and sectoral circles, and the Ministry of Health, as the final authority, will determine the procedural framework,” he explained. Raeeszadeh added that a final decision is expected to be announced in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Jafarian, an advisor to the Minister of Health and an informed figure in the process, expressed a preference for holding the elections electronically. However, he emphasized that this depends on a thorough evaluation of the technical infrastructure and the reliability of the election platforms.
Despite growing interest in electronic voting, concerns have emerged among medical experts and professionals regarding the integrity of the election process. A major concern is the potential involvement of private companies with questionable track records or perceived lack of neutrality in managing the technical side of the elections. Experts warn that failure to ensure transparency and impartiality could lead to allegations of fraud or misconduct, ultimately undermining public trust in the Medical Council.
Experts and observers stress the need for rigorous, real-time oversight by the Ministry of Health, the Medical Council, and candidate representatives—regardless of whether the elections are held electronically or in person. This is crucial, given the significance of the elections in determining the professional representatives of physicians and other healthcare professionals nationwide.
Due to the sensitive nature of this election, it is imperative that the method of voting be finalized as soon as possible. Prompt clarity would ensure operational preparedness and help minimize current doubts. Ending the ambiguity and moving toward transparency is the medical community’s primary demand from those overseeing the election process.
