Closed elections are being held for Hamas’ Shura Council. They will shape the future council and the leadership. Ismail Haniyeh (who left Gaza in September) is expected to be elected head of the political bureau - in effect leader of Hamas. This will be a new era following the departure of previous leader Khaled Meshaal. Historically, the Shura Council comprises religious leaders and imams. Now, well-educated individuals, professionals from Gaza and the West Bank and top Palestinian lecturers from around the world have joined it. A Gaza Hamas activist was asked, ‘What would the younger generation view as an achievement?’ His answer, ‘When past leaders recognise they cannot continue to decide things on their own; others in the movement have opinions.’ The election results at the end of December will reveal if Haniyeh prefers to remain in Qatar or live among his people and the youths who view his election as a harbinger of change.