In a vote held under "extremely complex" conditions, the Fatah movement led by President Mahmoud Abbas has scored a decisive victory in Palestinian local elections. The polls, held across the occupied West Bank and, for the first time in nearly two decades, in Gaza's city of Deir al-Balah, saw Abbas-aligned candidates sweep to power. 🏆
The Palestinian Central Elections Commission announced the final results on Sunday, praising the vote's integrity despite major obstacles. Commission Chairman Rami Hamdallah noted that Israeli authorities blocked election materials from entering Gaza, forcing officials there to produce ballots locally to ensure the vote could proceed.
Turnout painted a picture of the region's divisions. While 56% of eligible voters cast ballots in the West Bank, participation in Deir al-Balah was only 23%. Hamdallah cited outdated voter records and the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict, including deaths and displacement, for the low turnout in Gaza.
Hamas, which controls Gaza, did not formally nominate candidates there and boycotted the race in the West Bank. However, analysts noted that some candidates in Deir al-Balah were widely seen as aligned with the Islamist group. Despite this, the list they were associated with won only two out of fifteen seats in Gaza. A list backed by Abbas's Fatah and the Western-supported Palestinian Authority secured six seats.
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem used the occasion to call for long-delayed legislative and presidential elections, emphasizing the need to renew Palestinian political institutions.
These local elections serve as a key political barometer in 2026, offering insights into public sentiment amid ongoing challenges. 🌍
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
