Hadash Candidate Crisis: All Withdraw Except One, Vote Looms

Tensions flared Saturday at the election for the second seat for the Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) in Shfaram, following the party's announcement Friday that candidate Jafar Farah had withdrawn his candidacy. Supporters of Farah gathered outside the venue, holding his pictures and protesting, questioning the legitimacy of the developments. Lawyer Hussein Manaa, head of Hadash's Appeals Committee, explained that with all candidates except Samir Abu Zeid of Eilaboun withdrawing, the party's council, not the current committee, has the authority to elect a candidate. A vote will be held in the council if Farah formally resigns; otherwise, a decision will be made accordingly.

Earlier Saturday, candidate Shadi Shuwayri announced his withdrawal, stating he had initially supported Farah after a close election. Shuwayri explained he stepped aside due to what he called "trivial and baseless accusations" against him amid the crisis, aiming to contribute to party unity. He pledged support for whoever is ultimately chosen for the second seat and the joint list.

Another candidate, lawyer Basem Asfour, head of the Orthodox community in Nazareth, also withdrew his candidacy amidst the charged atmosphere. Protesters also chanted against MK Ofer Cassif upon his arrival at the venue.

Hadash leader Muhammad Barakeh stated he spoke with Farah in the hospital and that Farah would issue a statement clarifying his position. Barakeh asserted that Hadash's announcement of Farah's withdrawal was made with his consent. However, lawyer Nibal Aradat, close to Farah, claimed Farah had not officially resigned or withdrawn, demanding the list remain as chosen by the public and requesting Farah be given until Sunday to make a statement. Farah himself has not publicly commented on the situation, with his withdrawal announced solely through a party statement.