Local elections begin in occupied West Bank, Gaza Strip's Deir al-Balah

Local elections began in the occupied West Bank and the city of Deir al-Balah in the Gaza Strip on Saturday, according to the Palestinian Central Elections Commission.

The commission said in a statement that about 1.03 million voters are eligible to vote through 491 polling centers that include 1,922 voting stations.

This also marks the first time in 22 years that municipal elections are taking place in Deir al-Balah, relatively one of the least damaged cities in the enclave during Israel’s two-year genocidal war.

By 1 pm local time (1000GMT), the turnout rate reached 24.53%, the commission announced, confirming that the process is proceeding smoothly and regularly across all polling stations.

For its part, e Gaza's government media office said over 500 employees are participating in securing and organizing the Deir al-Balah municipal elections, describing them as an “important milestone to strengthen the democratic process and develop local governance.”

The polls, which opened at 7 am (0400GMT) local time, will be closed at 7 pm (1600GMT) in the occupied West Bank, and at 5 pm (1400GMT) in Deir al-Balah.

The elections cover 183 municipalities in total – 90 municipal councils with 3,773 candidates competing, while 93 village councils with 1,358 candidates vying for seats.

*Writing by Serdar Dincel