RAMALLAH, July 4 (Xinhuanet) -- Hamas will not join in a Palestinian national unity government before the delayed legislative election is held, The Ramallah-based al-Ayyam Daily reported on Monday.

    Hassan Yousef, a senior Hamas leader in the West Bank, was quoted as saying that Hamas prefers to hold the election first before a national unity government is formed.

    "We received the offer and there are contacts almost on a daily basis with officials in the PNA (Palestinian National Authority), but the movement will most probably refuse the offer," Yousef said.     

    He added that Hamas doesn't have any special interest in getting into the PNA cabinet and the correct way to it is through elections.

    The Legislative election must be held on time and municipal election must be completed, he continued.

    In the meantime, Hamas spokesman in Gaza, Sami Abu Zuhri, told reporters that they had not made a final decision on whether to join in an unity government or not.

    Until now Hamas movement is studying the situation, he said, adding that there were previous talks between the two sides on the issue.

    Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qurei said earlier in a written statement that he intends to start contacts next week with leaders of Palestinian factions and parties, aiming to form a national unity government. Enditem