Palestinian Authority issue new decree if Abbas unable to lead

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas issued a new decree on Sunday outlining the procedure to be followed if the presidency becomes vacant.

Under the new rules, the deputy chair of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) Executive Committee would temporarily assume the presidency in the absence of a Palestinian Legislative Council.

The decree stipulates that elections for a new president must be held within 90 days, though the period may be extended if conditions prevent voting.

Abbas introduced the decree as an attempt to "protect the Palestinian political system" and ensure a "peaceful transfer of power through free and fair elections".