Accra:The Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) has decided to delay the legislative elections initially set for November 28, 2026, moving them to September 2027. These elections will now coincide with the presidential elections.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency, the decision was made due to significant changes in the conditions that were anticipated when the elections were announced. Despite successfully carrying out elections for unions, federations, and local councils, the committee emphasized the failure to implement UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and the absence of international stabilization forces and Palestinian police in Gaza. The ongoing presence of Israeli occupation forces and attacks, coupled with restrictions on the Central Elections Commission and observers, were cited as major concerns.
The committee expressed that these conditions hinder the creation of a conducive environment for elections, affecting the safety of voters, candidates, and electoral workers. It highlighted the dire situation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, where armed settlers have been involved in violent acts under Israeli protection. Such acts include burning homes, uprooting olive trees, and stealing agricultural produce.
Additionally, the committee noted the continued expansion of settlements, land seizures, home demolitions, and restrictions on movement. These issues, along with the withholding of Palestinian clearance revenues by Israel, which have accumulated to approximately $7 billion, create significant barriers.
The PLO reaffirmed its dedication to renewing the democratic legitimacy of Palestinian institutions, describing elections as a right and national obligation. The postponement aims to ensure fair and safe participation across the State of Palestine under international supervision, mitigating Israeli-imposed obstacles and preserving unity.
Occupied East Jerusalem is deemed an integral part of Palestine, and the committee called on the international community to pressure Israel to lift restrictions on electoral participation in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza. It also reviewed the situation in Gaza and the West Bank and the ongoing threats to Palestinian rights, land, and holy sites.
The committee acknowledged the outcomes of recent meetings in Cairo among Palestinian factions as preparatory steps toward national dialogue. It praised Egypt's support for the Palestinian cause and its role in facilitating dialogue. These meetings recommended postponing the elections to allow time for dialogue and to overcome Israeli obstacles to free and fair elections.
The committee supported President Mahmoud Abbas's directives to seek international protection for Palestinians and called on global entities to protect Palestinian civilians and end impunity for crimes against them. It concluded by asserting that peace requires ending the Israeli occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.