If it weren’t so distasteful, it might actually be funny to watch mainstream media trying to paint the Palestinian “election” as a legitimate political process, instead of what it really is—a power struggle among murderous thugs in expensive suits: Palestinians urge Israeli pullback as race to succeed Arafat begins.

RAMALLAH, West Bank (AFP) - Officials pressed Israel to pull back its forces to allow a fair Palestinian leadership election, as preparations got under way with start of the candidate registration period.

Israeli media reports suggested that Prime Minister Ariel Sharon was likely to approve some sort of pullback by the army from populated areas, although it was unclear whether it would meet the expectations of the Palestinians.

Rawhi Fattuh, Arafat’s acting stand-in as Palestinian Authority president, called on Israel to help pave the way for the election by halting attacks, removing checkpoints and withdrawing to positions held before the intifada, or uprising, broke out in 2000.