Fatah–Hamas reconciliation process December 2012, in the aftermath of the UN status upgrade of the State of Palestine and the conflict in Gaza, calls for a unified Palestinian front have increased and the political leaders of Hamas and Fatah took several steps to reconcile their differences. In a televised address, PA President Mahmoud Abbas stressed that talks with Hamas would immediately follow the Palestinians' bid to upgrade their status at the UN General Assembly—an effort that succeeded. On 13 December, Fatah allowed Hamas to hold its first rally in the West bank since 2007, and on 4 January 2013, Hamas reciprocated by allowing
2008 President of the Senate of the Czech Republic election he would run even if Social Democrats would nominate him a rival. Social Democratic leader Jiří Paroubek supported Pithart's nominacy. Přemysl Sobotka announced his candidacy on 26 October 2008. Social Democrats announced on 29 October 2018 they wouldn't nominate their own candidate. Social Democratic Senator Milan Štěch stated that Sobotka should remain the leader. Election was held on 29 November 2008. Sobotka was the only candidate he received 78 votes on 80 and was elected for his third term. 2008 President of the Senate of the Czech Republic election Election of the President of the Senate of the Czech Republic