Likud Rejects Petitions Against Michael Ravillo’s Appointment as State Comptroller

Likud on Tuesday filed its response to petitions submitted to Israel’s High Court of Justice challenging the appointment of attorney Michael Ravillo as state comptroller, and asked the court to dismiss them. The party, represented by attorney Ilan Bombach, argued that overturning the Knesset’s decision, which was made by secret ballot, would be an unprecedented and extreme step.

According to Likud, the petitioners failed to present any factual or legal basis for annulling the vote or for ordering a new one. The party said the appointment was carried out in line with the law and Knesset procedures, leaving no room for judicial intervention.

Likud also said case law has set a particularly high bar for interference in the Knesset’s internal decisions, especially when the selection was made in a secret ballot. The party warned that accepting the petitions could create an important precedent affecting the balance between branches of government and weaken the Knesset’s independence in appointing senior officials as permitted by law.

The petitions were filed after Ravillo was chosen for the post and raise questions about the voting process and the legality of the appointment. The High Court is expected to continue hearing the case in the coming period, and its ruling will determine whether Ravillo takes office as planned or whether a new selection process must be held.