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"Hamas does not think elections can be held currently because the atmosphere isn't appropriate (to do so). They consider (them) a means to rotate authority, but not to turn the table against Hamas."
Moreover, Gaza's electoral register needs updating. The PPSF wants a transitional government lasting no more than 130 days. Hamas Political Bureau Chairman Khaled Mashal agreed in principle for Abbas to head it.
Hamas co-founder Mahmoud Zahhar and Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh reject the idea. Nonetheless, they expect differences resolved, May elections held, and a unity government formed.
In late February, the Al-Zaytouna Centre for Studies & Consultations assessed electoral prospects and implications. It said "conditions on the ground do not seem to provide a supportive environment."
Fatah wants its legitimacy established to lead all Palestinians and deal politically with Israel. Consider its record under Abbas.
In the West Bank, nothing tangible was achieved. Organizational and structural problems remain. Hamas controls Gaza and has some West Bank influence.
If held, West Bank, Gaza, and diaspora Palestinians will vote. The PLO and its institutions will be restructured. Many Fatah leaders object "because it will break up the movement's monopoly of the PLO and open the door for a stronger role by Hamas and the resistance factions."
Up to now, Fatah leaders rejected Hamas power sharing, including extending it to the PLO. As a result, they'll try to restrict elections to PA regions and "disable" PLO ones. Hamas and other Palestinian factions won't agree.
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