Ramallah: More than half a million Palestinians in the West Bank exercised their democratic right on Saturday, voting in the 2026 local elections despite ongoing challenges, including Israeli measures, colonist attacks, and financial pressures.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, a total of 512,510 voters cast their ballots, representing a turnout of 53.44%, a rate close to that recorded in the 2021 local elections. Fareed Taamallah, spokesperson for the Central Elections Commission - Palestine, stated that this reflects a strong public commitment to the democratic process and a lack of response to calls for a boycott.
Omar Rahhal, director of the Shams Center for Human Rights and Democracy Media, commented that the turnout indicates Palestinians' continued support for democracy and their constitutional and legal right to vote. He noted that the participation rate demonstrates public awareness and determination, emphasizing that Palestinians remain capable of organizing their affairs independently and aspire to freedom and democratic governance like other nations.
Rahhal highlighted that these elections took place under difficult conditions, including colonist attacks, land confiscation, and economic hardship, yet Palestinians still made their voices heard. He also pointed out that local elections are not only about services but also play a role in strengthening resilience, supporting development, and creating job opportunities through local investment in cities, towns, and villages.
He concluded by saying that the elections send a message to the international community that Palestinians are capable of self-governance and seek support in realizing their right to self-determination and establishing an independent state.
The Central Elections Commission - Palestine confirmed that polling concluded at 7:00 p.m., with voting proceeding smoothly and without major violations. Counting began immediately at polling stations in the presence of candidates, observers, and journalists, with results to be compiled and announced at a press conference in Al-Bireh on Sunday.