RAMALLAH, Sept 30: The ruling Palestinian movement Fatah held off on Friday a challenge from the radical Islamists of Hamas in a fresh round of elections in the West Bank where more deadly violence flared.

Hamas, looking to break into the political mainstream while still pursuing its armed campaign against Israel, failed to make significant inroads during the municipal elections which were held in 104 municipalities on Thursday.

Preliminary results showed Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas’s Fatah faction had won 51 of the councils while Hamas had gained control in only 13 on an 81-per cent turnout.

Hamas is planning to field candidates in January’s legislative elections for the first time despite threats from Israel to hamper the polls in the occupied West Bank if the movement participates.

Commentators however played down the wider implications of the results of the latest elections which were largely held in villages, saying local issues and tribal affiliations were the main factor in determining how people voted.—AFP