In a region often characterized by conflict and uncertainty, local elections in Palestinian towns such as Qusra represent a glimmer of hope and resilience amid ongoing challenges. Despite the backdrop of illegal settlements and economic difficulties, the upcoming municipal elections offer a rare opportunity for civic engagement, although many residents, including outgoing Mayor Hani Odeh, express skepticism about the elections’ potential to effect meaningful change. As these elections unfold, they highlight not only the Palestinian people’s desire for self-determination but also the necessity of a stronger, more inclusive political infrastructure to empower their future.
Ramallah, occupied West Bank – Hani Odeh, who has served as the mayor of Qusra for the past four and a half years, faces an uphill battle in representing his small town, which is surrounded by illegal Israeli settlements and outposts. Home to around 6,000 residents, Qusra has been under constant threat from settler violence, with last month witnessed the tragic killing of two locals. In the face of these ongoing challenges, which include restricted access to agricultural land due to damaged water infrastructure, Odeh has opted not to seek reelection in the upcoming municipal elections scheduled for Saturday.
Odeh reflects on his exhausting tenure, stating, “The resources are limited, the demands are many, there’s the settlers, the army – the problems don’t stop.” Despite the Palestinian Authority (PA) announcing these local elections—the first in nearly five years—many residents share a sense of futility about the electoral process. These elections, held amid an absence of national elections since 2006, serve to maintain the PA’s grip on power in the West Bank, often leaving citizens disillusioned with the status quo.
The PA remains under financial strain, as Israel continues to withhold tax revenues intended for Palestinian governance. Local civil servants responsible for managing Qusra’s affairs receive meager salaries, further complicating governance. The Palestine Elections Commission reports that 5,131 candidates will contest seats across 90 municipal councils and 93 village councils, with a significant portion of the electorate comprised of youth between the ages of 18 and 30. However, there is a pervasive sentiment of skepticism among many, paralleling Odeh’s perspective that nothing will change as the military’s gate to Qusra has remained locked for two years.
In Ramallah and Nablus, critical cities in the West Bank, elections will not take place through competitive voting processes. Instead, a system of acclamation will see candidates selected without formal voting, drawing criticism as this method historically applied in smaller villages extends to urban centers dominated by the PA, where political mobilization is discouraged. Zayne Abudaka, cofounder of the Institute for Social and Economic Progress (ISEP), emphasizes the pervasive disillusionment among citizens regarding political representation and participation.
While some express resignation over the electoral process, others retain hope for change. Iyad Hani, a 20-year-old first-time voter in el-Bireh, expresses optimism that new leadership will bring improvements to local infrastructure, prioritizing essential needs such as roads and public services. Muhammad Bassem, a restaurant manager in Ramallah, shares that change must come from new leadership, highlighting aspirations for a beautiful and thriving community enriched by tourism and job opportunities.
Despite a backdrop of skepticism, not everyone shares a dim view of the elections. Amani, a Tulkarem resident, expresses hesitance about participating, noting the persistent issues plaguing her local community that elections could potentially address. The economic hardships faced by many, including soaring VAT rates imposed by the PA during a time of financial downturn, reflect broader discontent with governance.
As the elections approach, a sense of disillusionment with the PA looms large. Many citizens are frustrated with perceived ineffectiveness, leading some to turn away from the political process altogether. With 88 percent of candidates running as independents—often viewed as a reflection of lost faith in established political entities—there is a clear call for an electoral framework that empowers the Palestinian populace.
While many believe they lack a credible political structure that invites genuine voter engagement, an underlying desire for democracy persists within the Palestinian community. For many, including Mayor Odeh, the importance of local governance remains undeniable, despite the challenges presented by ongoing occupation and financial constraints. He hopes for the arrival of a new era of political participation, where the local voice can resonate and result in tangible change. Odeh is looking forward to a new chapter of his life and emphasizes the enduring spirit of the Palestinian people: “We’re here. We’re not going anywhere.”
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