Some Palestinians Hold Local Elections

Palestinians held local elections in 93 communities in Judea and Samaria. This is the first time since 2005 that elections have been held in areas controlled by the Palestinian Authority.

Hamas boycotted the election, and Fatah expelled 70 people from the Fatah movement for daring to run as independents against Fatah.

Another 179 communities canceled elections as power-sharing arrangements were made between the clans, and there were no elections in 82 other communities, because there were simply no candidates.

Elections were not held in Gaza.

4700 candidates ran. 25% of them women.

515,000 people were eligible to vote.

Results are expected to be announced on Sunday. Voter turnout was around 54%.