By ASSOCIATED PRESS
The Hamas unveiled a surprisingly mild election platform on Wednesday, focusing on clean government and the fight against corruption while minimizing its traditionally fiery rhetoric against Israel.
The election program reflected Hamas' willingness to adjust to a changing Palestinian political landscape. Opinion polls have shown that Palestinians are wary from more than five years of fighting with Israel and fed up with corruption and ineffectiveness of the ruling Fatah Party.
Hamas, which is participating in legislative elections for the first time under the slogan "Change and Reform," is expected to make a strong showing in the January 25 vote.
Hamas' 20-point election program was published on the Central Election Commission's Web site last week. Group members said they also started handing out election pamphlets on Tuesday.