Municipal elections will be held this weekend in the city of Deir al-Balah in the Gaza Strip, with candidates, some of whom are linked to Hamas, which could be an indicator of the group's support among the population. This is reported by Reuters, writes UNN.
Details
The vote will be the first in Gaza since 2006, when Hamas won parliamentary elections and subsequently established control over the sector after a conflict with Fatah.
The elections are part of a broader municipal process of the Palestinian Authority, which is trying to extend voting to Gaza "where possible."
Symbolic meaning of the vote
Analysts view the elections as an attempt to demonstrate the unity of the Palestinian territories amid international discussions about the future of Gaza.
Voting will take place at 12 polling stations, including open areas and tents.
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According to the Central Election Commission, about 70,000 residents of the city, which suffered less destruction compared to other areas of the sector, have the right to vote.
Candidates and public participation
Four lists of candidates are participating in the elections, among whom are those whom local residents and analysts consider to be supporters of Hamas.
Local residents view the vote as a rare opportunity to influence political processes.
We seek to participate to change the reality imposed on us
For many, this is their first experience participating in elections in the last two decades.
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