Translated by Sabrin Qadah 

D. Shtayyeh held Hamas fully accountable for disabling the democratic process through its interference in the elections, and resorting to illegal courts and challenges.

Shtayyeh added, "We want the electoral process to be full and complete, including all of the Palestinian territories."

D. Shtayyeh hoped that Hamas draws conclusions and lessons out of what is happening, as the objective of the elections is to be a precursor to a reconciliation, and must not turn into a tool to entrench division and try to legitimize it as Hamas wished.

D. Shtayyeh said: We hope to create a suitable climate to enable the local elections with our people, stressing on the importance of keeping the popular and mass momentum rising in the Gaza Strip, although we are aware that such a thing could lead to frustration.

He also demanded the Minister of Local Government to appoint municipalities in the Gaza Strip as a minister of national consensus, qua the person concerned in this matter.