Political writers and thinkers demand referendum before final status agreement

Some Palestinian intellectuals called for a referendum before Palestinian President Yasser Arafat signs a comprehensive peace agreement with Israel.

Those thinkers and political writers held a conference in the Palestinian city of Ramallah.

Zyed Abu Omrah, a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council who opposes Yasser Arafat's policy, said, "A referendum must be made in which all the Palestinians participate for the self-determination."

He added, "The people's future will not be left to one person, especially that the Palestinian people is starting to lose faith in him."

He opposed describing Arafat as a traitor, saying he wants to end the struggle and start a new time.