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In Gaza, Hamas says no word on unity

With unrest rocking the Middle East Fayyad rethinks unity government

Ma’an – 21/02/2011

GAZA CITY — There has been no “official initiative” to contact Hamas officials in Gaza following reports that PA Prime Minister Salam Fayyad was seeking participation from the party in a new cabinet, a spokesman said.

Hamas leader Salah Al-Bardawil told Ma’an on Monday that there had been no contact with Gaza officials from either the PLO or Fatah, but added that the ruling Gaza party was keen to continue reconciliation founded on “full partnership, based on national constants and upholding the right to resist.”

In the West Bank, Fatah officials indicated that reports Fayyad had contacted Hamas to participate in a new unity government were true. Fatah leader Nabil Shaath told Ma’an on Sunday that it was “possible that we could shortly form a unity government which includes Hamas. This is essential if we are seeking to reach national conciliation.”

Hamas leader in the West Bank Ayman Daraghma, when asked about Hamas participation in a unity cabinet, said only that the party had suggested the option many times, but had been refused by the PA.

“Salam Fayyad does not represent the Palestinian leadership,” Al-Bardawil said, explaining that the government was illegally given to Fayyad and he was “not authorized to speak about public affairs.”

“The problem is not the government,” he added, calling for a “comprehensive solution which begins with the PLO and ends in forming a government through fair elections.”

Any solution, Al-Bardawil added, must begin with a release of political detainees and an end to the suppression of rights and freedoms.

February 21, 2011 - Posted by | Aletho News

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