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Gaza's First Municipal Vote Since 2006; Fatah Leads West Bank

4/28/2026

26 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The April 25 ballot was Gaza’s first municipal election since 2006 and the first Palestinian vote since the Gaza war began.
Fatah-backed candidates won most council seats in the West Bank and in Deir al-Balah.
Turnout was 56 % in the West Bank and 23 % in Gaza, per Central Elections Commission Chairman Rami al-Hamdallah.
Israeli security restrictions delayed some ballot boxes and equipment, though officials reported the obstacles were overcome.

History

Historical Context

In May 1994, after the Gaza–Jericho Agreement created the Palestinian Authority under Yasser Arafat, the PA held the first municipal elections in Gaza and the West Bank, filling about 1,200 council seats with a 71 % turnout. Earlier limited mayoral votes in 1972-1976 under Israeli rule and the fragmented 2005 local polls, halted by the Fatah-Hamas split, show the recurring difficulty of sustaining Palestinian local democracy.

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Story summary

The April 25 ballot was Gaza’s first municipal election since 2006 and the first Palestinian vote since the Gaza war began.
Fatah-backed candidates won most council seats in the West Bank and in Deir al-Balah.
Turnout was 56 % in the West Bank and 23 % in Gaza, per Central Elections Commission Chairman Rami al-Hamdallah.
Israeli security restrictions delayed some ballot boxes and equipment, though officials reported the obstacles were overcome.

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