The Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR) condemns the attack on Sheikh Hamed al Beitawi, member of the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC). After  sustaining a bullet wound in the leg, Sheikh al Beitawi was admitted to hospital for medical treatment. 

According to Sheikh al Beitawi’s son and ICHR's documentation, a Palestinian Preventive Security officer opened fire on Beitawi. On 19 April 2009, he and his son, Nassr, performed the noon prayers at Al Anbiya’ Mosque in the public square in the city of Nablus. On their way out, two Palestinian Preventive security officers approached and talked to Beitawi. After quarrelling with one another, a Preventive Security officer pulled out his pistol and opened fire, injuring him in the leg. Consequently, he was transported to the Rafidia Hospital for medical treatment. The offender was arrested and taken to the Al Juneid Prison run by the Palestinian Military Intelligence agency. 

ICHR deems that the attack on Sheikh al Beitawi, in his capacity as a PLC member, is a dangerous precedent. It should be highlighted that ICHR has received several complaints by PLC members from the Reform and Change Bloc. According to these complaints, PLC members were assailed by Palestinian security agencies. Reported harassments have blocked PLC members’ necessary communication with citizens. 
Therefore, ICHR firmly demands that:

1. The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) provides due protection to PLC members, ensuring their personal safety and protection of their property. The PNA should also enable effective communication between PLC members and the public without any harassment.
2. Relevant authorities should take expedient legal measures against offenders and bring them to justice. It should be noted that the Governor of Nablus and Preventive Security officials reported that the said officer has previously caused several public offenses. Nevertheless, he has remained in office.