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Spiritual leader of Iranian Reformists backs Rouhani

In his bid for a second term, moderate Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has won the endorsement of an influential Reformist: former President Mohammad Khatami.
Iranian President Seyed Mohammad Khatami speaks during a news
conference at the 10th Organisation of Islamic Conference summit in
Putrajaya near Kuala Lumpur October 17, 2003. Muslim leaders winding up
the summit on Friday were set to criticise a U.S. Congress vote to
impose trade sactions on Syria, a move host Malaysia says set "a very
dangerous precedent". REUTERS/Bazuki Muhammad

BM/FA - RTR54VE

Former Iranian President Mohammad Khatami (1997-2005), who leads the Reformist party, has announced his support for moderate incumbent President Hassan Rouhani, refuting rumors that he is backing a different candidate in the May 19 election.

On May 2, Khatami stated on his website that First Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri "and the wise figures of the country believe the interests of the people and the country is in the continuance of [a Rouhani presidency].”

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