A group of journalists residing in the Gaza strip has referred the matter to the Administrative Court, asking the tribunal to prevent the holding of the PJS Congress at the end of the month.

PJS members rallying today have claimed that a court decision to stop them from holding their congress would go against their democratic right to hold assembly and organise elections.

Tahsin Al-Astal, deputy director of the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate, said the union was committed to its statutes. He added that all procedures were conducted in accordance with legal principles and under the supervision of the honourable election committee, which includes lawyers, representatives of the Bar Association, human rights centres and university professors specialising in media.

He noted that the PJS had provided all possible facilities to ensure the widest participation of journalists in the elections process. However, he claimed that those who still need to pay their dues and clarify their membership should not prevent the majority from exercising their democratic right.

The IFJ stands with its affiliate in its demand to hold its transparent and democratic assembly in accordance with PJS' rules and international standards.