Likud Court Rejects MK Biton's Challenge to Minister Katz's Knesset Seat

The Likud party's internal court has rejected a petition filed by MK David Biton challenging the placement of Minister Israel Katz on the party's Knesset list. The court ruled that Katz's reserved seat would be in addition to, not part of, the previously established quota of reserved seats.

In its decision, the court stated, "Minister Katz's reserved seat will be beyond the quota of reserved seats as determined by our previous decision." This ruling upholds Katz's position and clarifies that it does not count against the existing allocation.

Additionally, the court issued a recommendation to the Likud party leader regarding the use of other reserved seats. They advised caution, suggesting that not all allocated seats should be used immediately, in anticipation of potential needs to form alliances with other lists. The judges wrote, "We recommend that the party chairman not use all the reserved seats allocated to him, considering the possibility that the need may arise to ensure connections with other lists. If this matter is no longer relevant, it is appropriate to consider not using all the reserved seats."

The ruling consists of two main points: Biton's petition against Katz's seat was denied, with the seat designated as an addition to the quota. Concurrently, the court advised the Likud leader to exercise restraint in utilizing the remaining reserved seats.