Palestinian Authority president designates likely successor

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has designated a successor in the event of his death or incapacity to remain in the role. 

Abbas issued a constitutional declaration that the president of the national council, Rawhi Fattouh, will assume his duties if the position of the presidency is vacant, Wafa has reported. 

Fattouh would become interim president for 90 days - or a further renewal of that period - until elections can be held. 

"We believe that the dignity of the homeland is nothing but a reflection of the dignity of each of its members," the 89-year-old Abbas wrote in his decree. 

Abbas has been the Palestinian Authority president since 2005.