With Palestinian elections scheduled for January, the big question is on every one’s mind- will Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas run for re-election? The Fatah leader’s popularity is low… and dropping. However, speculation remains that he will likely top the his party’s ticket for the presidency. Hamas leadership has said that the terror organization will not participate in the elections but may hold parallel elections in the Gaza Strip. And, all eyes turn to… Marwan Barghouti.

The imprisoned Palestinian leader retains cross-cutting support among the residents of both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Many analysts contend that only Barghouti could unite Palestinians, maintain credibility among Hamas supporters, and create a secure environment for Israel to resume negotiations towards a two state solution.

Now, rumors swirl that Barghouti could be released in a prisoner exchange deal for abducted IDF soldier Gilad Shalit. His confidants state that if Abbas decides against running, then Barghouti may enter the race. The guy to watch is definitively Barghouti.

Photos from Ynet and the Daily Telegraph.