Palestinians in the West Bank and central Gaza voted on Saturday in municipal elections, the first since the Gaza war erupted, marked by low turnout and a narrow slate of contenders.
Nearly 1.5 million people were registered to vote in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, as well as 70,000 people in Gaza's Deir el-Balah area, according to the Ramallah-based Central Elections Commission. By 5pm, turnout in the West Bank reached 40.62%; but participation in Deir el-Balah was just 21.2%.
The elections, originally scheduled for 2021, were delayed due to internal political divisions and the ongoing conflict. Voters expressed frustration with the political status quo, with many choosing to abstain. Candidates focused on local issues such as infrastructure, water shortages, and unemployment, avoiding broader political statements.
In the West Bank, the ruling Fatah party faced challenges from independent candidates and smaller factions. In Gaza, Hamas, which controls the territory, did not participate, leaving the field open to independents. The low turnout reflected widespread disillusionment with the political process, exacerbated by the war's devastation and economic hardship.
Observers noted that the elections were a test of the Palestinian Authority's legitimacy, which has seen its popularity decline due to corruption and ineffectiveness. The results are expected within days, with winners facing the daunting task of rebuilding communities shattered by conflict.
