Jerusalem Bloc, March 20th 1999

Brothers, sisters, masses of the student movement..

This year the elections come at a difficult time for the Palestinian cause, knowing that the interim period is about to end. The Palestinian students' movement in general, and in Birzeit in particular has always assumed the lead in the struggle against the occupation. The students' movement will continue to assume its leading role regarding national issues, and on top of them are:

1. The declaration of the state in May 4th, 1999 is a Palestinian demand that we can not forsake. The Palestinian leadership must understand that May 4th is a sacred date that should be adhered to.

2. We call upon all National and Islamic streams to put their minor disputes behind, and start a national dialogue, preparing for the coming stage when the State would be declared and Jerusalem proclaimed as its capital. We therefore urge the Palestinian Authority to release all political prisoners, quit arrests based on political background, and start a dialogue with the different political streams.

3. Jerusalem constitutes a redline that cannot be crossed. A serious attitude towards the issues of settlements and the Judiazation of the Holy City is needed.

4. There should be no settlements in the future Palestinian State. All settlements should be dismantled.

5. The unconditional release of the Palestinian prisoners in the jails of occupation before resuming the negotiations.

6. The right of refugees and Palestinians in the Diaspora.

Masses of the students' movement, a new stage is ahead of us, and we should take a responsible attitude towards it.

The Jerusalem bloc is struggling for an independent Palestinian State with Jerusalem as its capital. A state where the rule of law prevails, and individual freedoms are respected. A state where the minority is not oppressed by the majority. We regard the P.A. as the cornerstone for the state. Yet, we will stand up against it if it goes off the track of the national interest of the Palestinian people. The bloc urges the P.A. to:

1. Release all political prisoners, and stop arrests for political reasons.

2. Provide for the independence of Judiciary, and abolish the so called state security court.

3. Stand firmly against all kinds of corruption.

4. Limit the powers of the security forces.

5. Enable the Legislative Council to function effectively.

6. Guarantee freedom of speech and respect rights of the individuals.

Dear students, we call upon all to take their roles. We believe opposition does not aim at fighting with the P.A. for the fight should only be against the occupation.

To the Palestinian women we say you have the right to take your role, you were there all the time in the struggle against the occupation. Your advice is sought in making decisions. Just as you fought for you people, we fight at your side for your rights.

Glory for our people, yes for national unity and no peace with out acquiring our rights and declaring the Independent Palestinian State with Jerusalem as its capital.