In line with the principles of institutional governance and the commitment to ensuring the continuity of public service and community development, the official handover ceremony of the new Municipal Council of Surda Abu Qash Municipality was held on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
The ceremony was attended by Mr. Mohammad Hussein Taha, Acting Head of the Administrative Committee; Mr. Jad Shalhout, the newly appointed Mayor; Mr. Sayel Hanoun, Director General of the Ministry of Local Government Directorate in Ramallah and Al-Bireh Governorate; Mr. Samer Al-Barghouthi, Head of the Monitoring and Guidance Department at the Ministry of Local Government; members of the new Municipal Council; legal advisor Mr. Salah Mousa; municipal staff; and a number of official and community representatives.
Surda Abu Qash Municipality, represented by its Mayor, Mr. Jad Muhareb Shalhout, affirmed that this new phase is consistent with the Palestinian national approach and is carried out under the guidance of the Palestinian leadership, represented by His Excellency President Mahmoud Abbas “Abu Mazen,” and in cooperation with various national institutions and leaders. The municipality reiterated its commitment to Palestinian legitimacy and to continuing its efforts to serve citizens and strengthen their resilience despite the ongoing challenges and circumstances.
During the handover process, a comprehensive review was conducted of the municipality’s administrative and financial files, including financial accounts, agreements, ongoing projects, service-related files, outstanding issues, as well as municipal assets and balances. The review was carried out in accordance with the official procedures governing the transfer of responsibilities to the new Municipal Council.
In his remarks, Mr. Mohammad Hussein Taha, Acting Head of the Administrative Committee, expressed his appreciation to the previous Municipal Council for its efforts and achievements during the past period. He also commended the dedication of the municipality’s employees and staff and praised the professional support and follow-up provided by the municipality’s legal advisor.
For his part, Mayor Mr. Jad Shalhout emphasized that the new Municipal Council will work diligently and responsibly to serve the residents of the town, enhance the quality of municipal services, and promote teamwork and cooperation with the Ministry of Local Government, its directorates, and all national institutions in a manner that serves the best interests of the community.
Mr. Sayel Hanoun, Director General of the Ministry of Local Government Directorate in Ramallah and Al-Bireh, also praised the efforts of the previous Municipal Council and congratulated the new Council on assuming its responsibilities. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s continued support for local authorities, particularly in light of the difficult circumstances facing Palestine.
Surda Abu Qash Municipality, represented by Mayor Mr. Jad Shalhout, Deputy Mayor Mr. Nael Al-Shamali, members of the new Municipal Council, and municipal staff, extended its sincere appreciation to Dr. Sami Hijjawi, Minister of Local Government; Mr. Raed Muqbil, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Local Government; Mr. Sayel Hanoun, Director General of the Ministry’s Directorate in Ramallah and Al-Bireh; and all Ministry personnel for their continuous support, cooperation, and dedication to strengthening municipal work.
The new Municipal Council consists of:
Council Members:
At the conclusion of the handover ceremony, attendees emphasized the importance of continuing to work in a spirit of responsibility, partnership, and integration to serve the residents of Surda Abu Qash, advance development and construction efforts, and ensure the delivery of the highest quality services to citizens.
