Date of Publication: May 2026
Prepared by: Electoral Oversight Unit – PalThink for Strategic Studies
Geographical Scope: Deir al-Balah Municipality – Gaza Strip
1. Introduction: The Philosophy of Civic Oversight
As part of its commitment to promoting democratic values and good governance, and stemming from its national responsibility to support transparent Palestinian institutions, PalThink for Strategic Studies led one of the most comprehensive civic monitoring efforts of the 2026 municipal elections in Deir al-Balah.
This monitoring was not limited to passive observation; rather, it constituted a comprehensive evaluative tool grounded in international standards to assess the extent to which stakeholders adhered to electoral laws and regulations, ensuring that election results genuinely reflect the free and informed will of voters.
2. Monitoring Methodology and Operational Structure
The is based on a multi-dimensional monitoring methodology, implemented through a structured administrative and technical framework:
* Field Deployment and Timeline:
Monitoring was conducted over 12 consecutive days (campaign period), extending through election day and the counting process. A team of 40 trained observers (male and female) was carefully selected and deployed.
* Geographical Coverage:
Monitoring covered 13 main polling centers comprising 102 polling stations, ensuring full coverage of all population areas in Deir al-Balah.
* Monitoring Database:
Data was compiled and analyzed through 230 periodic reports based on 64 standardized indicators, covering procedural, logistical, and security aspects of the electoral process.
3. Track One: Monitoring the Electoral Campaign (April 10–21)
This phase was critical in assessing fairness and adherence to campaign ethics:
* Legal Compliance Indicator:
A very high compliance rate exceeding 97% was recorded, reflecting political maturity among competing lists and the public.
* Institutional Neutrality:
Security forces and public institutions demonstrated full neutrality (100% compliance), ensuring a safe and non-discriminatory environment for campaign activities.
* Digital Space Challenges:
Gaps were identified in regulating online campaigning, including early campaigning and misuse of national symbols—largely due to weak legal frameworks governing digital campaigning compared to traditional methods.
* Electoral Silence Monitoring:
During the 24-hour silence period before voting, minor violations were recorded, such as continued SMS campaigning and unregulated media messaging, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement mechanisms.
4. Track Two: Election Day (April 25) – Procedural Assessment
Observers monitored the process from opening to closing, noting key issues:
* Opening and Technical Challenges:
Delays (15–30 minutes) occurred in several polling stations due to technical failures in the electronic verification system (USSD), causing temporary voter congestion.
* Logistical and Security Violations:
A total of 157 violations were recorded, notably the use of non-standard sealing methods for ballot boxes instead of official locks—indicating logistical shortcomings that require urgent attention.
* Secrecy and Integrity of Voting:
Instances of voter influence within polling centers were documented, along with cases of photographing ballots using mobile phones, violating ballot secrecy. Cases of group voting and undue influence on illiterate voters were also observed.
5. Track Three: Counting and Tabulation – Final Transparency Test
The counting phase represents the ultimate test of transparency:
* On-site Transparency:
Counting generally proceeded in a calm and cooperative environment, allowing observers and agents to review ballots.
* Procedural Gaps:
Variations in staff capacity were observed, including inconsistent announcement of seal numbers and record details. Poor lighting conditions in some centers further affected efficiency.
* Inconsistent Standards:
“Administrative discretion” was noted in accepting ballots that did not fully meet technical criteria, leading to inconsistencies in determining valid versus invalid votes—highlighting the need for unified procedures.
6. Conclusions and Strategic Recommendations
Based on the findings, PalThink concludes that the 2026 Deir al-Balah elections represent a step forward, while also revealing procedural and technical gaps requiring immediate attention:
1. Technical Contingency Protocols:
Establish immediate paper-based alternatives in case of electronic system failures to prevent delays.
2. Strengthening Logistical Integrity:
Ensure strict use of officially approved materials and equipment at all stages.
3. Enhanced Digital Regulation:
Develop clear legal frameworks for online campaigning and train electoral lists accordingly.
4. Improved Polling Environment:
Ensure adequate lighting, space, and accessibility, particularly for persons with disabilities.
Conclusion
Through this comprehensive report, PalThink emphasizes that the purpose of electoral observation is to build on strengths while addressing gaps. Electoral integrity is a cumulative process, and the findings presented serve as a practical reference for all stakeholders to advance the Palestinian democratic process toward international standards.