Drucker Claims Netanyahu Had No Choice But to Include Bardugo in Likud

Investigative journalist Raviv Drucker revealed new details from his program "The Source" concerning Moti Bapchik, a former influential aide in the Ministry of Health. Drucker alleged that Bapchik had significant ties with lobbyists representing major food, cigarette, and pharmaceutical companies. These lobbyists, Drucker claimed, actively sought to block reforms supported by the Ministry of Health, with Bapchik allegedly assisting in delaying and undermining them.

Drucker also discussed evidence suggesting Bapchik solicited donations for the Gur Hasidic dynasty from these same lobbyists. He described a "give and take" dynamic, where lobbyists would request favors from Bapchik, who would then inquire about their contact with the leadership of the Gur institutions. While Drucker refrained from labeling these actions as bribery, he noted that Bapchik faces charges pending a hearing, and that similar cases have resulted in bribery convictions.

Regarding the political implications, Drucker commented on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to include Yaakov Bardugo in the Likud party list. Drucker suggested that Netanyahu felt compelled to accommodate Bardugo, who had been persistently seeking a ministerial position, possibly Minister of Justice or Communications. Drucker believes that if Netanyahu forms a government, Bardugo will certainly be appointed a minister.

Despite the controversy surrounding Bardugo's inclusion, Drucker predicted a minimal impact on Likud voters. He argued that voters who support Likud at this stage are unlikely to be deterred by Bardugo's presence on the list, suggesting that the ability to sway voters on such matters is limited after recent political events.