| Hamas called on its followers Tuesday to vote in upcoming Palestinian local elections, highlighting the militant group's new determination to enter politics and challenge Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat's dominance. The call came a day after a Hamas leader was quoted as saying the group plans to contest legislative and presidential elections, which Arafat has promised to hold but has not yet set a date for. The comment by Mahmoud Zahar marked the first time Hamas has made such a commitment. Hamas has previously said it would participate in the first municipal elections to be held under Palestinian rule, scheduled to begin Dec. 9. But until Tuesday, the group had shown minimal interest in the campaign. A strong Hamas campaign could pose a formidable challenge to Arafat. The veteran Palestinian leader announced plans earlier this month to hold the municipal elections in response to widespread discontent over his corruption-plagued government and chaos in the Palestinian areas. |