Ramallah: The Central Elections Commission announced the commencement of field voter registration in the West Bank as part of the legal timetable for the 2026 legislative elections. Scheduled to continue through August 19, the registration process will be available at 467 centers across local communities and refugee camps.
According to Palestine news and Information Agency, the commission has urged citizens who are not currently on the voter roll to register online through its website or by visiting any of the registration centers located in cities, villages, and camps throughout the West Bank. Jerusalem citizens, holding Jerusalem IDs, are exempt from registration but will receive further instructions on arrangements to enable them to run for office and vote.
Jerusalem residents living in the West Bank have the opportunity to register at the nearest electoral district office during the field registration period, upon providing proof of residence. Meanwhile, Gaza citizens' participation rights in the legislative elections are assured without requiring registration at this stage, with future arrangements to be announced per approved procedures. Those from Gaza living in the West Bank can register by visiting the nearest electoral district office with proof of residence.
The commission emphasized the need for citizens registered with foreign passports before 2021 to update their information by August 19 to secure their right to run for office and vote. Voters can also transfer their polling center during the registration period by visiting a registration center with proof of residence.
Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody can register through a legal representative or by proxy via relatives. Farid Taamallah, spokesperson for the Central Elections Commission, during a visit to a voter registration center at Qalandia refugee camp, urged timely registration to ensure participation, as the registration period will not be extended beyond the deadline.
Taamallah noted that over 1.6 million voters are currently registered in the West Bank, representing 86.5% of those eligible, and expressed optimism for increased registration. He highlighted the critical role of all societal segments, including Palestinian refugee camp residents, in the electoral process, with registration centers strategically placed to facilitate access.
The commission maintains its commitment to neutral and independent operations, adhering to legal standards and ensuring integrity and transparency throughout the electoral process, thereby safeguarding citizens' rights to participate and elect their representatives.