RAMALLAH: A top PLO official recently fired by Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas says he was dismissed illegally in a move that bodes ill for Palestinian institutions.

Yasser Abed Rabbo, who has criticized Abbas’ policies and leadership, was removed as the Palestine Liberation Organization’s No. 2 two weeks ago. He was replaced with Abbas confidant Saeb Erekat.

Abed Rabbo told reporters Sunday he was fired without a vote, and that this “harms not only me” but the organization.

Abbas’ office had no comment.

Abbas has alleged in closed-door meetings that Abed Rabbo is part of a group of Palestinian politicians trying to undermine him with financial support from the UAE.

Abed Rabbo says such “painful” allegations hurt ties with the UAE which he described as a supporter of the Palestinians.