GWU withdraws statement on Palestinian election

The youth section of the General Workers Union on Friday night withdrew a statement on the Palestinian elections just hours after describing the outcome - in which the terrorist organisation Hamas swept to power - as a "positive sign for democracy in the region".

"By means of this press release, and following the results of the general elections in Palestine, the GWU youths considers this mandate as a sovereign and free expression of the Palestinian people," a statement signed by international secretary Andrè Borg had said.

"We would appreciate your kind co-operation and coverage, to express young people's views on international politics," the youths said.

The GWU youths said the result showed active participation among the electorate in the decision-making processes. In particular, the union youths noted the direct involvement of young people and trade unions to embrace the spirit of active participation, also during the elections in Israel.

The GWU youths maintained that Hamas should assume its international obligations and responsibilities to lead a democratic government. This, they argued, could be achieved by ordering a ceasefire, fighting terrorism, and compromise for a possible peace deal with Israel.

Just hours later, as the Hamas win provoked a strong negative international reaction, the GWU released a statement urging the media to postpone the publication of the first statement until tomorrow - when a more "comprehensive analysis" would be made as the outcome of the elections was continuously developing.