Iranian authorities announce first municipal council elections since 1979 revolution

The Iranian authorities announced that elections for municipal councils throughout Iran will be conducted for the first time since the Islamic revolution in 1979.

A statement issued by the Interior Ministry said the elections will be held on February 26, 1999, and that they will provide President Sayed Mohammed Khatami a chance to enhance his position against the Islamic conservatives who control all the power centers in the country, including the Shura council and the judicial authority.