To the Heads and Members of Appointed Local Councils

by Dr. Abdul-Sattar Kassem

Resorting to the method of appointment for the various local councils represents the height of contempt and mockery toward the Palestinian people. Instead of strengthening self-confidence and encouraging popular participation through the election of representatives and decision-making, the Palestinian Authority worked to marginalize the role of the people and subordinate them to individual decisions built on factional and arbitrary grounds. The appointments to local councils sprang from a narrow political outlook, from vested interests, and in accordance with the requirements of the agreements with Israel.

…and an assault on the national interest, which can only advance through the advancement of popular participation in public affairs — foremost among them, the choosing of one’s representatives.

Perhaps accepting appointment might be reasonable for a limited period, accompanied by the formation of a committee to hold elections within six months. But accepting an open-ended appointment that drags on for years cannot serve the national or local interest, nor can it earn anyone personal respect.

I therefore call on all committees of the appointed local councils, with their heads and members, to submit their resignations, so as to make room for the people to choose their own representatives. It is true that there are numerous obstacles standing in the way of holding local elections, but we are capable — if the will is there — of overcoming the difficulties and establishing the principle of elections in practice. Resignation and the rejection of appointment are two practical steps that affirm our commitment to the right of choice and to respect for the opinions of the people. This is how collective work begins, and this is how institutions begin to side with their rightful owners.

Source: Translated from the original Arabic, “إلى رؤساء وأعضاء المجالس المحلية المعينين” by Dr. Abdul-Sattar Kassem.