(Jerusalem Post) Khaled Abu Toameh - Yasser Arafat is withholding his endorsement of a parliamentary bill that gives extensive powers to his prime minister, according to Palestinian sources. Arafat's refusal to accept the wishes of the Palestinian legislators has forced them to convene again next week to discuss amendments designed to placate him. Palestinian officials said Thursday that Arafat is opposed to the bill "because it gives the prime minister too many powers." Many Palestinians remain skeptical that Mahmoud Abbas's appointment will bring about real change in the PA. According to a professor at Bir Zeit University, "There will never be democracy or serious reforms as long as Arafat is around. Abbas will end up as a servant under Arafat."
2003-03-14 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive