Will the West Bank hold elections without Gaza?
Many scenarios emerged when the Palestinian local elections were delayed, with some saying elections may be held in the West Bank, and not in the Gaza Strip, where Hamas may appoint its candidates in the local bodies.
As Palestinians were preparing for the local elections slated for Oct. 8, the High Court of Justice in Ramallah announced Sept. 8 a surprising decision to hold the elections on Sept. 21 instead. However, when Sept. 21 came, the court decided to postpone the elections until Oct. 3. In light of these repeated delays, the Central Elections Committee (CEC) announced Sept. 21 that holding the planned elections on Oct. 8 was unfeasible, as the delays have disrupted the electoral process’ timetables.
This decision sparked mutual accusations between Hamas and Fatah over the postponement of the elections. While Hamas viewed the postponement as a cancellation of the elections, Fatah accused Hamas of sabotaging the elections. Meanwhile, dozens of leftists rallied before the High Court of Justice on Sept. 21 to express opposition and demand the court to reconsider its decision.
