The Central Elections Commission denied news reports on Sunday regarding its intentions to delay the election date for Palestinian Legislative Council and the presidential elections set for January 2010.

The commission confirmed in a statement that it remains committed to the date appointed by President Mahmoud Abbas for 24 January 2010, adding that it lacks the authority to change the presidential decree that was issued by the President, proclaiming the forthcoming elections.

Rumors that the elections could came after Abbas declared on Thursday that he has no desire to stand for another term.

Warning media outlets not to heed rumors of the election’s deferral, the commission further added that media outlets should obtain its information directly from official sources noting that the committee regularly releases news statements on its stances and on electoral procedure in Palestine.