Residents in Gaza have cast ballots in a municipal election for the first time in more than 20 years, with voting held in the central city of Deir el-Balah amid ongoing Israeli strikes and political division.
Polling began early on Saturday as part of wider Palestinian local elections that also took place across the occupied West Bank. Deir el-Balah is the only city in Gaza included in the vote, with around 70,000 eligible voters.
The election marks the first time Gazans have voted since the 2006 parliamentary election that brought Hamas to power. Since then, governance in the territory has relied on administrative appointments rather than public votes.
The Palestinian Central Elections Commission said the vote forms part of a broader process covering more than 400 local councils. Officials described the inclusion of Gaza as a step towards restoring local governance.
Voting took place at multiple centres, including tents and public facilities, with some adjustments made due to limited electricity and widespread damage. The commission said results were expected later on Saturday or on Sunday.
Deir el-Balah was selected because it sustained less damage during Israel’s genocidal war than other parts of Gaza. Even so, much of the city shows signs of destruction, and basic services remain under strain.
Candidates have largely avoided formal party labels. Groups such as Hamas and Fatah are not running under official banners, with most candidates organised through local alliances, family networks or professional groups.
Each list includes 15 candidates, with a requirement for female representation. Voters select a list and then indicate preferences for individual candidates within that group.
Despite the absence of official party branding, some lists are widely viewed as linked to political factions. Analysts said the outcome could offer an indication of support levels, though the conditions of war limit broader conclusions.
The Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the West Bank, has promoted the elections as part of efforts to demonstrate governance and reform. Officials hope the vote will reinforce its claim to authority in Gaza, where it has not held power since 2007.
Some factions have boycotted the process, citing conditions that require candidates to support existing political agreements. Hamas has not formally fielded candidates but has indicated it will respect the results.
The vote takes place amid a continued humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where many residents remain displaced, and infrastructure remains damaged. In 2024, an Israeli strike destroyed the Deir el-Balah municipal building, killing the mayor and several staff.
For many voters, the focus remains on immediate needs. Access to clean water, stable electricity and basic services has become central to expectations from any new leadership.
HT
