Ramallah, 24-01-06: In separate meetings held today with Independent Palestine candidates, Mustafa Barghouthi, Raja Shehadeh, Khalid As’sayfi, and Nassif I-Deek, a group French and Spanish parliamentarians upheld their support for the cause of Palestinian democracy, and for the key role Independent Palestine is playing in fostering the development of a democratic system in Palestine.
The meetings addressed the importance that elections play in the democratic process both within Palestine and within the region itself. Dr. Barghouthi stressed the significance of presidential, municipal and now legislative elections in providing Palestinians with the first real opportunity to lead, and participate in the democratic process, a fact affirmed by high levels of candidate and voter registration.
The candidates also underlined the importance of Independent Palestine as a centrist, balancing force in Palestinian politics between the polarization of Fatah and Hamas, and in promoting political pluralism in what has essentially been a one-party system until now.
They added that of all lists, the Coalition represents the widest spectrum of Palestinian society. In addition, with its strong roots in civil society the list brings with it first-hand knowledge of the real needs of the Palestinian people.