More of the Same? Fatah’s Seventh General Congress and the Reelection of Abbas | Inss

Fatah’s Seventh General Congress gave Mamoud Abbas renewed public legitimacy, following the ongoing erosion in his status among the Palestinian public. A decisive majority of Fatah united behind Abbas, the sole candidate, and his reelection to another five-year term as leader of the movement. Whatever little internal opposition there was found itself neutralized, and it was clear throughout the congress who controls the movement. The reelection of Abbas highlights Fatah’s stagnation and its structural, functional, and ideological weakness, which affects the PA and Palestinian society.