Hamas: Reconciliation not dead, Egyptian plan continues
Published today (updated) 17/10/2009 17:02
www.maannews.net/eng/ViewDetails.aspx?ID=232918

Gaza - Ma'an - "PLO secretary Yasser Abed Rabbo is not a party in the
Palestinian dialogue, and he does not represent any Palestinian side," Hamas
leader Mushir Al-Masri said responding to the official's Friday statement
later in the day.

Abed Rabbo had declared the death of Palestinian conciliation dialogue while
speaking to journalists earlier in the day, and intimated that he spoke on
behalf of Palestinian factions who are members of the PLO.The official also
said he expected Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to call for elections
on 25 October, saying elections are the only way out of the dialogue cycle.

Hamas wants elections, Al-Masri said, noting the party's popularity in the
West Bank has gone up over past weeks. "The Egyptian plan discusses
elections, and those who want elections before reconciliation plan to thwart
the Egyptian efforts," he added.

"Reconciliation is a strategic choice for Hamas both rhetorically and
practically, and we intend to sign the Egyptian agreement and make sure it
is implemented," he added.