Palestinian American Congress congratulates Abbas, Jan. 10, 2005

Statement of the Palestinian American Congress

Jan. 10, 2005
Chicago, IL Jan. 10—The Palestinian American Congress, Chicago Chapter, congratulates Mahmoud Abbas on his election to President of the Palestinian Authority. This victory is not only a man being elected into office but proof that the Palestinian people believe and adhere to a democratic system. In 1996, Palestinians democratically elected Yasser Arafat as President of the Palestinian Authority.

A total of 775,000 Palestinians cast their votes on Sunday, January 9, 2005, despite the duress of occupation. Abbas received approximately 63% of the vote. Challenger Mustafa Barghouti received 20%. Abbas' campaign goals and stance against violence were heard and responded to. This victory, by American standards, represents a landslide. The Palestinian people must come together under their newly elected leadership. Abbas can restore trust and stability through an organized and well instructed government.

Abbas, also known as Abu Mazen, will need to make sure that Israel makes the concessions necessary to result in a Palestinian State--a fact that continues to be blurred by the U.S. government and U.S. media. This will require one message... peace WITH JUSTICE for the Palestinian people and satisfaction for both sides. Abbas must not accept anything less than fair American intervention. His decisions should be accepted and respected if he is able produce these necessities.

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