Gaza city: In light of the Cabinet Decision issued on December 2, 2025, which set Saturday, April 25, 2026, as the date for conducting elections of local authority councils in all districts of the West Bank and Gaza, the Central Elections Commission (CEC) stated that it finds conducting local elections across the entire Gaza Strip to be difficult and extremely challenging.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the CEC, after considering the current conditions in the Gaza Strip, has decided to hold local elections in the city of Deir Al-Balah. This decision is driven by the aim of strengthening the geographical and political unity of both sides of the homeland and safeguarding citizens' right to participate in the democratic process wherever possible.
These elections in Deir Al-Balah will coincide with elections in 420 local authorities in the West Bank, as indicated in a statement issued by the CEC. The Commission has urged all relevant authorities, as well as national and community factions, to provide the necessary support and assistance to ensure the successful conduct of the electoral process in the city.
Moreover, the CEC reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens' right to choose their representatives and expressed hope for completing the democratic process in all local authorities of the Gaza Strip when conditions improve and allow for such electoral activities.
