Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas called today for a referendum to resolve a power struggle with Hamas, highlighting bitter divisions on a day of mourning for Yasser Arafat.
Tens of thousands gathered at Mr Arafat's gravesite in the West Bank city of Ramallah for the fourth anniversary of the former Palestinian leader's death. Hamas, which seized Gaza last year after routing Mr Abbas's forces, barred Arafat memorials there.
Mr Abbas, who controls the West Bank, and Hamas have traded blame since reconciliation efforts broke down last week. Egypt postponed talks meant to end the rift when Hamas decided to boycott, demanding Fatah release prisoners.
A key dispute is over when to hold an election.
Mr Abbas has proposed holding a simultaneous presidential and parliamentary poll in the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank, arguing the law gives him the right to remain in office until 2010.
Hamas demands presidential elections by January 9 when it says Mr Abbas' four-year term ends, but objects to an early parliamentary poll. Hamas won control of parliament in 2006 and argues its lawmakers should serve a full four years until 2010.
Mr Abbas suggested putting the decision about when to hold elections to the general public.
"If they (Hamas) are self-confident, let them accept elections. If they don't, we will seek a referendum," Abbas told the crowd. "We will go back to the people to resolve the crisis," by deciding whether an early parliamentary and presidential poll should be held, Mr Abbas said.
Reuters