Balad Party Chair Accuses Yair Golan of Racism Amid Election Disqualification Battle

Sami Abu Shehadeh, the chairman of the Balad party, has vehemently criticized the Central Elections Committee and its head, Supreme Court Justice Noam Soferg, following the committee's decision to disqualify his candidacy for the Knesset. Abu Shehadeh declared that the legal and public battle over the disqualification is just beginning, asserting that the committee's decision lacks moral or public validity and was politically motivated to neutralize Arab leadership.

In a radio interview, Abu Shehadeh also directed sharp criticism at National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, accusing him of cynically exploiting "the blood of victims" for political propaganda. He further attacked Yair Golan, chairman of the Democratic Party, labeling him a "racist" and accusing him of attempting to dictate Arab leadership that serves Israeli left-wing interests rather than the Arab public.

Regarding a controversial article he wrote about the October 7th events, Abu Shehadeh acknowledged that in retrospect, he would phrase it differently. However, he maintained that his words were taken out of context and weaponized by political rivals to deny the Arab public their right to representation in the Knesset by their elected officials.

Abu Shehadeh firmly rejected any rumors of resignation or surrender, emphasizing that Balad will continue its fight with all available means. He stated that even if he is personally disqualified, the party will vigorously continue its election campaign to boost Arab voter turnout and ensure the Arab public's voice in Israeli politics.