Arab Parties Sign Vote Surplus Deal Ahead of Elections

Yahya Dahamsha, political bureau chief of the United Arab List (UAL), confirmed that a vote surplus agreement has been signed between the UAL and the Joint List. The agreement aims to prevent vote wastage in the upcoming elections and does not impose any post-election political obligations on either party. Dahamsha stated that the deal was initiated by the National Accord Committee, which proposed a clean election campaign. The UAL welcomed this initiative and signed the agreement, which he described as a "technical" and standard arrangement between parties.

Dahamsha emphasized that the vote surplus agreement does not include any understandings regarding coalition formation or recommending a prime minister, asserting that each list retains its freedom to make independent political decisions after the elections. The agreement, based on Article 81 of the Knesset election law, allows for the exchange of surplus votes between the UAL and the Joint List to maximize vote utilization, while keeping their respective political platforms and post-election choices separate from the deal.

He further clarified that the UAL's potential participation in a future coalition, should they decide to do so, falls within their political program and does not conflict with the commitment to avoid personal attacks. The agreement encourages competition based on political platforms and positions rather than mutual criticism or defamation. Dahamsha acknowledged the difficulty in controlling online discourse but noted that the UAL has previously requested the removal of offensive posts.

Regarding the disqualification request filed against the UAL by the Otzma Yehudit party, Dahamsha dismissed it as weak and based on previously rejected arguments. He expressed confidence that the UAL will contest the request, leaving the final decision to the relevant judicial authorities.