Public Preliminary Statement – Local Elections 2026

The Witness Center for Citizen Rights and Social Development deployed 15 field observers across the districts of Qusin, Zawata, Beit Emrin, Beit Iba, Sarra, Til, Deir Sharaf, Rujeib, Yasid, and Burqa to monitor the 2026 local elections.

Key Findings

1. Procedural Integrity

The electoral process was generally conducted in accordance with applicable laws and procedures. Opening, voting, and counting processes were implemented on time in most polling stations. Election officials demonstrated a satisfactory level of organization and responsiveness, particularly in addressing reported incidents during polling day.

However, several procedural violations were observed, including:

• Election campaigning inside or near polling stations
• Interference with voters’ choices in some locations
• Occasional breaches of ballot secrecy
• Limited organizational irregularities affecting polling flow

These issues were mostly individual and localized, and did not appear to systematically undermine the overall integrity of the process.

2. Accessibility and Inclusion

Access to polling stations was generally acceptable, with most centers operating in a way that allowed voter participation without major physical barriers.

However, the monitoring team noted:

• Instances of limited assistance for certain voter groups
• Informal voter influence that may have affected free decision-making
• Uneven enforcement of rules regarding voter support mechanisms

Overall, accessibility was functional but requires clearer standards for ensuring equal and independent participation for all voters.

3. Observed Strengths

• High level of general adherence to electoral procedures
• Smooth opening and closing of most polling stations
• Active and timely response from election authorities to reported violations
• Cooperative behavior between polling staff and voters in most locations
• Transparent counting processes observed in the majority of stations

4. Areas for Improvement

• Stronger enforcement against campaigning near polling stations
• Enhanced protection of ballot secrecy
• Clearer regulation of voter assistance to prevent undue influence
• Improved training for polling staff, particularly in smaller stations
• Ensuring unrestricted movement and protection for accredited observers

Conclusion

While the 2026 local elections demonstrated an overall acceptable level of procedural compliance and operational organization, the presence of recurring localized violations highlights the need for strengthened enforcement mechanisms, improved voter protection safeguards, and more consistent implementation of electoral standards.