Statement by CEC Chairman

In a press conference held today at CEC premises in Al-Bireh, CEC Chairman, Dr. Hanna Nasir stated that preparations for the upcoming local elections scheduled on October 8th, has already commenced. Dr Nasir added that the decision to hold local elections enhances the periodicity of elections as a pillar for a democratic society.

Dr. Nasir said the CEC will take all measures necessary to ensure the freedom of elections whether during nomination and election campaigning or by respecting of election results in both the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

In the implementation of elections, Dr. Nasir said that the CEC will cooperate, for technical and procedural purposes, with relevant governmental authorities in the West Bank and Gaza. These include, the Ministry of Education to provide polling centers and staffing, the Ministry of Interior for the security of the electoral process, in addition to relevant courts in both the West Bank and Gaza. The CEC will abide by the jurisdictions of such courts according to law and for operational purposes that fall under the jurisdiction of the Commission. Dr. Nasir also confirmed that same electoral procedures and standards will be equally applied according to law in all local authorities whether in the West Bank or Gaza Strip without discrimination.