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Source: http://www.tau.ac.il./jcss/tanotes/TAUnotes70.doc
The Appointment of Abu Mazin: Symbols and Substance
(Dayan Center - Tel Aviv University) Asher Susser - Abu Mazin's rise to prominence does represent positive change. He was one of the few PLO officials who were involved in the secret talks that led to the Oslo accords and he has become a firm believer in the real need for a settlement with Israel. Abu Mazin does not have an independent power base, but he does have the firm support of key figures in the Fatah new guard, such as Jibril Rajoub. So long as Arafat is not incapacitated, it will be very difficult to sideline the wily old "Mr. Palestine." Abu Mazin is, therefore, unlikely to emerge immediately as a serious rival to the historical Palestinian leader.