Palestinian President Abbas votes in Fatah party elections

May 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Palestinian President Abbas votes in Fatah party elections

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas Casts Ballot in Fatah Leadership Elections

A vote was held at the presidential headquarters in Ramallah for internal Fatah leadership elections, which took place on Saturday. The election aimed to select members for the movement’s Central Committee and Revolutionary Council at the Ahmad Shuqairi Hall.

According to reports, President Abbas participated in the voting process, stating that he wanted to ensure the success of the democratic process. He emphasized the importance of unity within the movement and its commitment to renewing leadership institutions.

The eighth congress of Fatah is taking place amid significant challenges for the Palestinian people. The event was originally scheduled for 2021 but has been delayed five times. It brings together nearly 2,580 members from four locations: Ramallah, Gaza, Cairo, and Beirut, in an effort to address geographical fragmentation within the movement.

The congress’s outcome is expected to be announced on Saturday evening. Analysts have noted that the event may impact the transition of power following President Abbas’s eventual departure. The Fatah leadership has been criticized for its approach to democratic debate, with many senior officials from the Palestinian Authority security and civil services participating in the congress.

President Abbas was re-elected as leader of the Fatah movement earlier this week, with a unanimous vote.

Source: Al Jazeera