Accra:Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has issued a presidential decree setting September 11, 2027, as the date for simultaneous presidential and legislative elections. This decision follows the cancellation of Decree No. (4) of 2026, which had previously scheduled legislative elections for November 28, 2026.

According to Qatar News Agency, the new decree aligns with a decision by the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and follows national consultations with Palestinian political forces and factions. A national consensus emerged from these discussions, leading to the decision to hold the elections on the new date.

The decree stipulates that Palestinians in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip will participate in electing both the President and members of the Legislative Council simultaneously, adhering to the legal provisions. The change in the election schedule was influenced by constraints posed by Israeli actions, which affected the feasibility of holding the elections as initially planned. The importance of ensuring suitable political, security, and field conditions for free, fair, and comprehensive elections was emphasized.