Palestinians Can Propose Temporary Government Ministers on Facebook
It’s been well documented that social networking sites have been key in spreading pro-democracy messages and bringing people to the streets in the Arab world. Now, people are even being told they can choose their government on Facebook.
Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad has asked his Facebook friends to help decide who should serve in his government.
His entire cabinet resigned last Monday, in an apparent attempt to make way for more inclusive government and avoid the pro-democracy demonstrations sweeping the Arab world from spreading to the West Bank.
Palestinian elections, last held in 2006, are long overdue, and will not take place until September at the earliest. But Mr Fayad posted a message on his Facebook page this morning saying that anybody who wants immediate input can use the social networking site to tell him who he should appoint in the meantime.
He wrote that he is looking for “credible” people with “excellent leadership and scientific skills.” People have responded with suggestions for politicians, businessmen… and themselves.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
