Al-Bireh – The Central Elections Commission (CEC) held a consultation session with the representatives of Palestinian political parties and factions, out of its keenness to enhance dialogue and consultations with the treasuries and representatives of political parties and factions, in order to discuss the ongoing preparations for conducting the 2026 Local Elections.
The meeting was chaired by Dr. Rami Hamdallah, CEC’s Chairman and members of the CEC’s executive staff at HQ in Al-Bireh, who informed the participants on the progress of the electoral process, concluded stages, and upcoming stages according to the approved legal periods and in line with the legal references regulating the electoral process.
During the meeting, Dr. Hamdallah presented the key challenges facing the organization of local elections, most prominently, Israeli conduct and practices on the ground, including the erection of roadblocks, barriers and checkpoints as well as the geographic defragmentation and the resulting logistical and procedural complexities. Additionally, financial challenges linked to funding continue to be among the bottlenecks as well as the amendments to the Local Elections Law.
Moreover, Dr. Hamdallah indicated that the CEC has launched a broad awareness campaign to educate the public on the new law and mechanisms of the electoral process, confirming the CEC’s commitment to reach out to the widest possible segment of citizens, enhancing their awareness of their electoral rights and duties. This shall contribute to enhancing societal participation in the upcoming due elections.
Furthermore, Dr. Hamdallah noted that the number of registrants in the Voters’ Registry has exceeded 1.5 million citizens, elaborating that work is ongoing on validating data and completing all necessary technical and legal procedures, in preparation for transitioning to the Exhibition & Challenges stage in due process.
The CEC’s Chairman informed participants of the CEC’s decision to conduct local elections in the City of Dier Al-Balah concurrently with conducting it in 420 local authorities in the West Bank. Dr. Hamdallah further pointed out that the CEC, in case of readiness, will work on conducting elections in the remainder of the Gaza Strip local authorities, despite the massive damage to its premises. The decision is meant to consolidate and emphasize the unity and complementarity of the homeland.
Dr. Hamdallah reaffirmed the CEC’s understanding of the remarks and positions of the political parties and factions, including the stances taken by some factions refraining from participating in the elections on the grounds of some articles of the law. He also emphasized that the CEC is a technical executive body operating in accordance with the provisions of the law, with the utmost level of professionalism and neutrality, standing at the same distance from all stakeholders.
In conclusion, the CEC emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and consultation with the political parties and factions, being a key pillar for the success of local elections and enhancing the democratic path despite all existing political and field challenges.