President Mahmoud Abbas has expressed readiness to hold Palestinian elections within the year, subject to suitable conditions. This announcement came during an Arab League summit where he also introduced a vice-presidential role and committed to amnesty for expelled Fatah members. With elections on the horizon, Abbas aims to strengthen the Palestinian Authority’s governance structure and address internal political divisions, particularly with Hamas.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas announced his readiness to hold presidential and parliamentary elections within the year during an Arab League summit on Gaza reconstruction in Cairo. He indicated that the elections would be feasible if conditions permit and also introduced a new vice-presidential position within his government. Additionally, Abbas provided amnesty for previously expelled members of his Fatah party, including notable figure Mohammed Dahlan.
Abbas, who has been in power since 2005 after succeeding Yasser Arafat, emphasized the establishment of a vice-presidential position in response to requests from the Palestinian Authority’s foreign supporters. He is targeting a restructured authority, suggesting he is preparing for the potential political changes in the Palestinian territories.
Stating that the Palestinian Authority is the legitimate governing body, Abbas declared, “We are fully prepared to hold general presidential and legislative elections next year, provided that the appropriate conditions are met in Gaza, the West Bank, and east Jerusalem.” His comments reflect a push for reform and a desire to address internal political disputes, particularly with Hamas, which has been in control of Gaza since a violent conflict in 2007.
The last Palestinian presidential election occurred in January 2005, with legislative elections following in January 2006, after which political activity stalled due to conflict between Hamas and Fatah. Abbas’s recent proposals may redefine Palestinian governance and reflect a strategic response to the changing political landscape following recent hostilities in Gaza.
In conclusion, President Mahmoud Abbas’s announcement regarding the potential for presidential and parliamentary elections marks a significant moment in Palestinian political developments. By signaling his willingness to adapt the governance structure and address previous political exclusions, Abbas aims to facilitate a more legitimate and unified political process in the Palestinian territories. His actions may reshape the future relations between factions and the international community’s engagement with Palestinian leadership.
Original Source: www.france24.com
