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Presidential candidates pose for a group photo after their first live debate on state TV, in Tehran on May 31.
Presidential candidates pose for a group photo after their first live debate on state TV, in Tehran on May 31.

Live Blog: Presidential Debate In Iran, Round Two

"Persian Letters" blogger Golnaz Esfandiari and RFE/RL editors live-blogged as Iran's eight presidential candidates debated social issues on June 5, in the second of three televised preelection debates. The first debate had focused on the economy but was roundly criticized, even by the candidates themselves, as political pabulum. Make up your own mind as to whether the second installment was any better.

11:49 5.6.2013
Rohani: our cultural atmosphere should be safe for cultural activities.
11:50 5.6.2013
Rohani: some censorship can be eliminated.
11:50 5.6.2013
Rohani: when the atmosphere is insecure it kills creativity.
11:51 5.6.2013
Rohani: some officials are weakening people's religious beliefs.
11:51 5.6.2013
Rohani also talks about the spread of superstition.
11:53 5.6.2013
Presenter to Rohani: we expected you to criticize Rezai's stances, but you expressed your own views.
11:55 5.6.2013
Qalibaf says he had the sense from Rezai's comments that economy has priority for him over cultural issues.
11:57 5.6.2013
Rezai reacts to criticism: I haven't introduced my policies yet.
11:57 5.6.2013
Personal note: Iranians in general can't speak briefly and to the point.
11:58 5.6.2013
Rezai: poverty affects other areas, it needs to be tackled.

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