Nasser al-Kidwa builds support in terror-ruled Strip, calling Palestinian Authority 'totalitarian' and destructive, as PA's rule appears increasingly tenuous

The PA president appears to be backing rise of Hussein al-Sheikh, who has good ties with Israel, but critics decry backroom deals, saying next leader must be chosen by elections

Position left vacant by former chief negotiator Erekat will likely be filled by Hussein al-Sheikh, seen as possible successor to long-ruling PA president

With a 2-part structure that starts with Fatah strongholds and leaves contested cities for later, ballots are seen by some as just an attempt to hush increasingly loud critics

PA Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh later orders release of all those detained during Ramallah protest, in latest rally sparked by death of government critic

In Ramallah, opposition politicians say a 'change government,' if it comes to pass, would be anything but that for the Palestinians

Apart from Fatah and Hamas, notable slates include factions backed by convicted terrorist Marwan Barghouti, exiled Abbas rival Dahlan

Former PA prime minister Salam Fayyad registers his own list in planned election, which is scheduled for May 22; registration closes at midnight

Nasser al-Qidwa, a member of Fatah's powerful central committee and Yasser Arafat's nephew, has long been an Abbas critic; says he hopes the imprisoned Barghouti will head his bloc