TEHRAN, June 25: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday urged defeated presidential candidate Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani to remain involved in politics. In his first comments since Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s victory, Ayatollah Khamenei also urged Iranians to put aside their differences after a fractious campaign.

“I congratulate the elected president, Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, for taking on this critical responsibility,” he said in a statement broadcast on state radio.

Political analysts had speculated that Khamenei favoured Ahmadinejad in the race, preferring an inexperienced, loyal, hardliner to the vastly experienced and more moderate Rafsanjani, who could have had far more influence over decision-making.

But Ayatollah Khamenei went out of his way to praise Rafsanjani in his post-election statement.

“I sincerely thank all candidates, especially Ayatollah Hashemi Rafsanjani, who is a resource for the revolution and a prominent figure, and I hope my dear brother would always like to be present in important fields,” he said. The electoral defeat was a crushing blow for Rafsanjani, 70, who was hoping to regain the post he held from 1989 to 1997.

It was not clear whether he would remain at his current post as head of the powerful Expediency Council — an arbitration body which settles political disputes and can enact legislation.

Mr Rafsanjani has not made any public comments since the election.

Ayatollah Khamenei praised Iranians for making the elections a success after a reasonable 60 percent turnout of eligible voters.

“You presented a great show of national unity and public cooperation to your friends and enemies,” he said.

He called on the country to unite after a sometimes acrimonious campaign featuring character assassinations and allegations of voter intimidation.

“All supporters, both the supporters of the elected candidate and the supporters of other candidates should show they are capable, wise and aware,” he said.

“National unity and understanding will guarantee the country’s security and will defuse any plots (against it),” he added.

—Reuters