TEHRAN (Reuters) -- Iran's opposition leader Mir Hossein Musavi will attend Friday prayers this week in his first official public appearance since last month's disputed presidential election, a statement on his website said.
Musavi's statement, posted late on July 15, confirmed a media report earlier this week that he would attend the prayers at Tehran University to be led by former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a rival of reelected President Mahmud Ahmadinejad.
Musavi, Ahmadinejad's main challenger in the June 12 presidential election, says the vote was rigged in the hard-line incumbent's favor. The authorities reject charges of vote fraud.
"Since I regard as obligatory responding to the invitation of the sympathisers and supporters in the path of safeguarding legitimate rights of a free and honorable life, I will maintain a presence alongside you on Friday," Musavi said.
Musavi's statement, posted late on July 15, confirmed a media report earlier this week that he would attend the prayers at Tehran University to be led by former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a rival of reelected President Mahmud Ahmadinejad.
Musavi, Ahmadinejad's main challenger in the June 12 presidential election, says the vote was rigged in the hard-line incumbent's favor. The authorities reject charges of vote fraud.
"Since I regard as obligatory responding to the invitation of the sympathisers and supporters in the path of safeguarding legitimate rights of a free and honorable life, I will maintain a presence alongside you on Friday," Musavi said.
The Battle For Iran's Future
Three-Part Series
The Battle For Iran's Future
With much more than a disputed presidency at stake for Iranians, RFE/RL's Charles Recknagel and Mazyar Mokfi explore the power plays that could reshape Iran's political establishment.- Crisis Response Hints At Early Stages Of A Power Struggle
- Ultraconservatives May See Chance To Revive 'Wilting' Revolution
- How Could Hard-Liners Choose The Next Supreme Leader?
Iran Election Special
Iran Election Special
RFE/RL's Full Coverage
Following the disputed reelection of Iranian President Mahmud Ahmadinejad, supporters of Mir Hossein Musavi have taken to the streets to protest. Click here for news, blogs, and analysis of the presidential election and aftermath.Iran Election Diary
Iran Election Diary
