Top Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat called on the Israelis Sunday to "shorten" the term of the government of Ariel Sharon should he win the Israeli elections, reported AFP.
"I say clearly: the days of the Sharon government must be shortened. Each day that can be taken from his government is a day won for peace and stability in the region," Erekat was quoted as telling Abu Dhabi satellite television channel.
The rightwing Israel candidate is widely favored against Labor's Ehud Barak in the elections.
Haaretz newspaper quoted Monday top Labor party officials who conceded that "Sharon will defeat Prime Minister Ehud Barak at the polls tomorrow."
Even Barak's closest associates, according to Haaretz, are saying "It's all over", and are hoping for a "respectable" defeat that would allow Barak to make a political comeback "after Sharon and his narrow government spoil every stew they cook up."
Still, Barak soldiered on Sunday, appearing in Negev southern Israel before a group of new immigrants from the former Soviet Union, and visiting Bedouin leaders.
In the opposing camp, Sharon's supporters were confident nothing could prevent the Likud leader's victory -- Albawaba.com
© 2001 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
