Former Knesset Member Esterina Tartman Dies at 68

Esterina Tartman, a former Member of Knesset (MK) who served two terms representing the Yisrael Beiteinu party, has passed away at the age of 68. Her funeral is scheduled to take place today at Har HaMenuchot in Givat Shaul.

Tartman was first elected to the Knesset in 2006 and served until 2009. In 2007, she was slated to be appointed Minister of Tourism. However, shortly after the announcement, a controversy erupted when it was revealed that she did not hold the bachelor's degree in accounting and financial management from Bar-Ilan University or the master's degree in business administration that she had claimed.

Facing significant public criticism, Tartman was forced to withdraw her candidacy for the ministerial position. Following these revelations, she received a reprimand from the Knesset Ethics Committee.

Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Lieberman eulogized Tartman, stating, "I received with great sorrow the news of the untimely passing of former MK Esterina Tartman, may she rest in peace. Esterina dedicated many years to public service and to the State of Israel, acting with devotion and determination. My sincere condolences to her family and all her loved ones during this difficult time. May her memory be blessed."