The West Bank on Saturday witnessed two counter demonstrations, one demanding the resignation of President Mahmoud Abbas and another supporting the Palestinian Authority (PA) leader.
The anti-Abbas demonstration was sparked by last month’s death of Nizar Banat, a 43-year-old from Hebron known for social media videos denouncing alleged corruption within the PA.
Banat died shortly after security forces stormed his house and violently arrested him, his family said.
On Saturday, protesters kicked off their march through Ramallah’s downtown, holding up a huge banner that carried the words “Abbas Leave” and chanting, “the people want the fall of the regime.” Slogans against Abbas in Ramallah - the PA stronghold - are almost unprecedented.
Their calls came two days after Palestinian Justice Minister Mohammed al-Shalaldeh said the investigation into the death of Banat had handed its report to the head of the military judiciary in order to take legal measures and investigate suspects.
Spokesman for the security forces, Col. Talal Dweikat said 14 people have been referred to the judiciary in the case, adding that the investigation will continue until the indictments are issued and fair trials are held.
However, Banat’s family rejected the report and said it wants an international investigation.
Meanwhile, the WAFA news agency reported that thousands of Palestinians demonstrated on Saturday evening in the city of Hebron, south of the West Bank, in support of Abbas.
The demonstration, called for by Abbas’ ruling Fatah movement, underscored the importance of consolidating national unity and upholding the Palestinian national project of independence and statehood.
The people waved Palestinian and Fatah flags, as well as banners supporting the Palestinian leadership.
They also voiced support for the Palestinian security forces in their commitment to upholding the rule of law in the territories.
