Arab Parties Sign Vote Surplus Deal Ahead of Elections

Yahya Dahamsha, political bureau chief for the United Arab List (UAL), has clarified the details of a vote surplus agreement signed between the UAL and the Joint List. He stated that the agreement's primary goal is to prevent vote wastage during the upcoming elections and does not impose any post-election political commitments on either party. Dahamsha explained 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" arrangement common among political 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, he noted, allows for a vote surplus arrangement between the UAL and the Joint List according to Article 81 of the Knesset Election Law, ensuring that votes are utilized effectively. He added that the political platforms and post-election choices of each list remain outside the scope of this agreement.

Speaking on Radio al-Shams, Dahamsha addressed the UAL's potential participation in a future coalition, stating it would be part of their political platform and would not conflict with the commitment to avoid personal attacks. He stressed that the agreement aims to shift competition to focus on political platforms and stances rather than mutual criticism or defamation.

Dahamsha acknowledged the difficulty of controlling online discourse but affirmed that party leaders are responsible for guiding their cadres and supporters toward this approach. He mentioned that the UAL has previously requested individuals remove 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 would contest the request, leaving the final decision to the relevant judicial authorities.