In a 56-18 vote, The Palestinian Legislative Council voted today in favor of the new cabinet proposed by the Palestinian leader. Arafat's previous Cabinet resigned in September under threat of failing to pass a confidence vote in the Palestinian Legislative Council.
The changes made include reducing the number of ministers from 21 to 19, introducing new ministers from different political parties, and integrating the security forces under the Ministry of Interior. The new cabinet, however, does little to accommodate the demands for reforms which threatened the previous Cabinet.
In an hour long speech preceding the vote the Palestinian leader reaffirmed that elections for presidency and the Palestinian legislature will be held on January 20, despite international pressures.
Arafat said in his speech: "I have created a Cabinet committed to the rule of law and reform and development, a Cabinet that will work for enhanced cooperation with the Palestinian Legislative Council and all political and popular forces in the country."
Chairman Arafat was adamant about the Palestinian determination to be freed of Israeli occupation, bud added that the nation strives to live in peace with Israel. Arafat said: "So here we extend our hand to you in reconciliation, and we extend the olive branch to resume the path that we began in Madrid and Oslo." (www.albawaba.com)
© 2002 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
