As Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territory prepare to go to the polls on 25 April, the United Nations Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, welcomes the efforts of the Central Elections Commission to organize local elections in the West Bank and the municipality of Deir al-Balah in the Gaza Strip.
“Saturday’s elections represent an important opportunity for Palestinians to exercise their democratic rights during an exceptionally challenging period. The United Nations commends the Central Elections Commission for its sustained efforts to prepare for a credible process, given the significant challenges present in the West Bank and the extraordinarily difficult conditions prevailing in Gaza.” said Dr. Alakbarov.
The United Nations urges relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure that the electoral process is conducted in a peaceful, orderly, and inclusive manner, that voters are able to exercise their right to participate freely and without intimidation, and that any disputes are resolved through established legal channels.
The United Nations reiterates its support for strengthening Palestinian institutions and promoting democratic governance, as part of broader efforts to advance a just and lasting peace in line with international law, relevant UN resolutions, prior agreements and in pursuit of a viable Two-State Solution.
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