Akbar Hashemi's Memoirs - February 25, 2000 - Warm reception from worshippers, it seems they feel I have been wronged

Dr. Tabatabaei's concern that I may be anxious due to electoral issues and the propaganda from the left-wing faction and foreign influences

Warm reception from worshippers, it seems they feel I have been wronged

In the morning, Dr. [Seyed Mahmoud] Tabatabaei, [neurosurgeon], came. He had assumed that I might be anxious due to the electoral discussions and the left-wing faction’s propaganda, as well as foreign influences. He brought two types of pills for my calmness, particularly for the Friday prayers. He mentioned that I had appeared upset during the last Friday prayers, and while my words were truthful, they had a negative impact. He also criticized the rudeness and lack of culture within the political factions of the country.

I went to Tehran University for the Friday prayers. The worshippers greeted me with an unprecedented level of enthusiasm and emotion. It seems they feel that I have been wronged, and their support has increased. I delivered a sermon on ethics and another on current affairs.

In the afternoon and evening, I stayed at home, and some of the children were there as well. Mr. [Mohammad Hassan] Tolayi, [Head of the Election Monitoring Committee of Tehran Province], informed me that they had somewhat resolved their differences with the Ministry of Interior. The results of Tehran's election are expected to be announced tonight. He expressed frustration over the Ministry of Interior's underhandedness and political maneuvering. It is currently raining heavily in Tehran.