Degel HaTorah Officials Back Gafni, Makleb Amid Internal Party Struggle

Local representatives of the Degel HaTorah party have penned a letter to the movement's rabbis, publicly supporting Knesset members Moshe Gafni and Uri Makleb amidst an internal party dispute. The signatories warn that replacing the veteran lawmakers could weaken the party's public advocacy and overall influence.

The letter, initiated by council members from across Israel, expresses clear opposition to the potential ousting of Gafni, the party chairman, and Makleb, the chairman of the United Torah Judaism faction, from the party's list. They urge the rabbis to "strengthen the hands of their emissaries."

The representatives emphasize that now is not the time to weaken experienced leaders, particularly given the current challenges facing Torah scholars and yeshiva students. They argue that replacing Gafni and Makleb could be perceived as weakening the party's public campaign and hinder their ability to advocate for the public, educational institutions, and yeshiva students.

The letter explicitly rejects any attempt to alter the status of Gafni and Makleb, highlighting their long-standing, loyal service in public and parliamentary arenas, guided by Torah scholars. The signatories implore the rabbis to intervene, support the veteran representatives, and ensure experienced leaders continue to champion the cause of Torah study.

The internal struggle within the Lithuanian Haredi party, Degel HaTorah, stems from calls for significant renewal and the replacement of veteran figures. Gafni and Makleb's names have surfaced in discussions alongside prominent municipal and party candidates, including Menachem Shapira, Yaakov Guterman, Lazar Rauchberger, and Michi Alper. Tensions are also reportedly linked to criticism over the stalled draft exemption law and issues concerning sanctions and arrests.