As Iran approaches its presidential election, the second televised debate among candidates has sparked more controversy than enthusiasm.
During Thursday evening's broadcast, the debate focused on the "justice-oriented service of the government." However, it seems to have fueled public cynicism and apathy instead of inspiring voter engagement.
The debate, featuring six candidates, was met with a notably cold reception on social media.
Users described it as "pathetic," "repetitive," and "boring," with many lamenting the low level of political discourse.
Even Hamid Rasaei, a hardline member of parliament, criticized the format, calling it "a boring round table between six candidates" rather than a proper debate.
At the center of the controversy was Alireza Zakani, the mayor of Tehran and a conservative candidate.
Zakani's ambitious promises, including a "special golden subsidy package" that would provide families with the equivalent of 20 grams of gold annually, along with free medical services for pregnant women, retirees, and children, drew sharp criticism and skepticism.
Another candidate, Mostafa Pourmohammadi, openly questioned the sincerity of Zakani's promises, suggesting they might be "false."
Mohsen Borhani, a suspended professor from Tehran University, expressed dismay that someone of Zakani's "level of literature and reasoning" holds a position on the university's board of trustees.
Television presenter Reza Rashidpour called Zakani's promises "disgusting" and accused him of despising the Iranian people by attempting to "buy votes."
Economic journalist Behnam Samadi pointed out the mathematical impossibility of Zakani's gold promise, noting that it would require 533 tons of gold annually, far exceeding Iran's total annual gold production of 8 tons.
The debate also saw Zakani launching a direct attack on former President Hassan Rouhani, claiming that the late Ebrahim Raisi's three-year term was superior to Rouhani's eight years in office.
Other contentious topics during the debate included Pourmohammadi's involvement in the Crescent case and Saeed Jalili's past opposition to Iran joining the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
The candidates also discussed inflation, budget deficit, fuel consumption subsidies, and education.
They all promised to try to get the sanctions lifted and introduce reforms, but none offered concrete details.
All the candidates said they believe the Education Ministry is the most important part of the government because "the next generation of the country is raised in this ministry."
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