Dubai — Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei advised former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad not to seek a return to the post in next year’s election, saying his participation would “polarize” the country. RelatedThe statement confirms months of media speculation that Ahmadinejad wanted to run but might not win official backing. While 61 percent held a “very favorable” view of the president after the deal was signed, it’s now 38 percent. The divisive politician may have split the bloc of ultra conservatives and hardliners, pushing some into Rouhani’s camp, he said. Rouhani, if he decides to stand for a second term, is unlikely to get a free run, said Zweiri.

Source: National Post September 27, 2016 14:03 UTC