(IRNA) - The Islamic Republic of Iran is a unique example of democracy and freedom and its people are a great support for freedom-seeking and independent nations, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said evening, reports Trend.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting, the president hailed the massive turn-out of Iranians in Friday's elections, saying on that day (Dec 15) "the Iranian people demonstrated their vigilance and surprised enemies of the country."
He said the high point of the election was the peaceful atmosphere in which it was held.
The 4th Assembly of Experts and 3rd local council elections were held simultaneously in 63,377 polling stations across the country on Friday.
The 7th Majlis also held its second by-elections on the same day in three constituencies -- Tehran, Rey, Shemiranat and Eslamshahr (taken as one), Bam and Ahvaz.
President Ahmadinejad said that the massive participation in the elections of Iranians from all walks of life puts a greater burden on elected officials to prove they deserve their positions and can ably serve the interests of the people as well as defend their rights and dignity.