Khomeini grandson disqualified from polls

“I do not agree with activities of barring candidates, but neither do I protest it and I will not plead with them to change their decision,” he said.

The 39-year-old civil engineer, who bears a marked resemblance to his grandfather, described the decision as “an insult to Khomeini’s family,” which has stayed out of politics since his death.

The family, especially the late ayatollah’s ailing wife, Khadijeh Saghafi, were upset about the case, he said, but maintained he would not publicly protest the action in order to protect his family’s name.

“This happened intentionally but as I want to protect reputation of Khomeini’s family, I will not show any reaction,” said Eshraghi. “They sent a message asking me to write a single sentence appealing the decision. I said if you think you are were wrong, change your decision by yourselves.”

Eshraghi, who works for the Tehran municipality and describes himself as an independent, said they asked his neighbors about his lifestyle and whether he prayed and fasted, or smoked and shaved — the latter two activities being considered less pious in Iran.

Out of 7,200 prospective candidates, only 5,000 still remain, according to an official report issued in January.