Masked gunmen take over Fatah headquarters

Gunfire erupted at the headquarters of Palestine’s ruling Fatah party today after masked gunmen took over the building to protest against a decision by the Palestinian leader to appoint people to his election list rather than honour the results of a primary election.

At least two people were wounded and taken away in ambulances.

The fighting stems from disputes within Fatah ahead of January 25 Palestinian legislative elections.

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas held primaries in the West Bank and Gaza Strip to determine who would represent the party in an upcoming parliamentary election.

But he decided to cancel the results of the primaries in some areas - including all of Gaza – due to violence, the burning of ballot boxes and other election violations.

He said he would appoint candidates in those areas.

The gunmen who occupied the Fatah headquarters today – taking up position on the building’s rooftops, balconies and around the facade – were protesting the appointments, demanding that the primary results be respected.