GAZA, July 4 (Xinhuanet) -- The radical Hamas movement on Monday officially rejected a proposal to join a unity government.

   "Hamas has decided to reject the offer by the government led by Prime Minister Ahmed Qurei, as the offer is vague," the movement said in a statement, a copy of which was obtained by Xinhua.

   "Hamas has informed the Fatah movement of its decision," the statement said.

   Hamas called for holding the legislative election in January as scheduled, saying it will continue to pursue the path of liberation and freedom.

   Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas and Qurei hope that a national unity government would help ensure a smooth Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and part of northern West Bank.

   But Hamas, which deems the pullout victory of a struggle against Israel's occupation, fears that joining such a government will weaken its influence in a fight with Israel. Enditem