The results of the Palestinian local elections held in the West Bank indicate a significant dominance of candidates from the Fatah movement in most municipal and village councils, with a moderate voter turnout. In contrast, Deir al-Balah in Gaza, the only city in the sector where elections took place, saw a lack of decisive outcomes amid low participation rates.
The local elections, which took place last Saturday, were the first under the new system established by the Palestinian National Authority last year, requiring candidates to present a program from the "Palestine Liberation Organization" as a fundamental condition for candidacy. The Authority also commits internationally to a "two-state solution".
Election Results Overview
The Central Elections Commission announced the final results of the local elections on Sunday, which were conducted in 183 local bodies in the West Bank, in addition to the city of Deir al-Balah in the Gaza Strip. Rami Hamdallah, the head of the commission, stated during a press conference that "the elections were held for the first time under a new electoral law that adopts an open list system and individual candidacy."
According to Hamdallah, approximately 522,000 voters participated, with 197 local bodies winning by acclamation. The voter turnout in the West Bank was 56 percent, compared to 53.7 percent in the 2012 elections, 53.8 percent in 2017, and 58 percent in 2022.
The Salfit Governorate in the northern West Bank recorded the highest voter turnout at 71 percent, while Deir al-Balah in Gaza had the lowest at 23 percent.
Context and Background
With the announcement of the final results, the Fatah movement, led by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, celebrated the significant victory of its list "Steadfastness and Giving," considering the results as a "popular referendum" supporting the movement's approach and political program. The movement expressed gratitude to the Palestinian public for their trust in its lists and candidates.
Fatah declared its victory in the majority of local bodies, notably in Hebron, Tulkarem, Salfit, and Al-Bireh, where it formed 197 municipal and village councils by consensus with national action forces and local institutions, including the major municipalities of Ramallah and Nablus.
Impact and Consequences
The Hamas movement was completely absent from the competition, as it does not hold membership in the "Palestine Liberation Organization". Its previous participation in elections occurred without adhering to its status as the "sole legitimate representative" of the Palestinians. This time, Hamas did not run or mobilize for voting.
Lists supported by Fatah competed against independent candidates led by businessmen or candidates from factions within the "Palestine Liberation Organization," such as the "Popular Front," or lists formed by large allied families. In some areas, lists within the same city were all affiliated with Fatah.
Significance for the Arab Region
The local elections are seen as a preparation for the upcoming Palestinian National Council elections scheduled for November, as well as potential legislative and presidential elections. The Palestinian Authority promoted the local elections as part of former U.S. President Donald Trump's "peace plan" for Gaza.
Abbas indicated that "this year will be the year of elections," emphasizing that success in the local elections represents a new victory for the Palestinian national will and embodies the people's commitment to the choice of democracy. This process is expected to culminate in elections for the Palestinian National Council, thereby enhancing democratic life and solidifying the principle that "the citizen's voice is fundamental."