NTA Chairman Idan David Removed From Post Amidst Resume Fraud Allegations

The Appointments Committee, chaired by Judge Shulamit Dotan, has removed Idan David from his position as chairman of NTA (National Transport Authority), Globes has learned. The committee's decision, made this morning, cited a Channel 12 investigative report by journalist Yossi Mizrahi. The report alleged that the scope of funds managed by David at the company "Migdalit" was significantly lower than he declared upon his appointment, with its revenues totaling approximately NIS 17 million compared to his reported figure of NIS 800 million.

Further scrutiny revealed discrepancies regarding David's tenure as CEO of IDY GROUP. A document signed by Tami Shafi, identified in the Channel 12 report as David's wife, was submitted without this relationship being disclosed. Additionally, an accountant's confirmation provided by David, signed by CPA Yoram Barzani, was allegedly denied by Barzani himself, who called the document a "complete forgery." A similar response was reportedly sent to the Government Companies Authority.

David submitted a response to the committee, rejecting the claims "without any detail, reasoning, or basis," and vaguely stated that his extensive professional experience spoke for itself. He argued that the short timeframe given for his response prevented a full and fair assessment. David also expressed concern that the authority's inquiry was not objective but related to his role as chairman and the authority's criticism of his activities in that position.

The committee concluded that David's appointment was based on factual information that was likely untrue, thus undermining the factual basis for the decision and his subsequent appointment. The committee stated it is not bound by its previous decision, especially since it relied on incorrect information and documents provided by David himself, which are now deemed unreliable. Had the committee known the true nature of these documents, it would not have approved his appointment.

Following the Channel 12 report, which raised suspicions that David systematically inflated his resume to meet job requirements and falsely present himself as having senior management experience, the Government Companies Authority approached the police, who opened an investigation. The authority demanded David respond by September 22 to allegations regarding the accuracy of his professional experience. A letter from Authority Director Roi Kahlon requested that all information submitted by David be accompanied by a sworn affidavit.

David was appointed in July of the previous year as the nominee of Minister David Amsalem, who oversees government companies. His previous role was CEO of Ashkelon Municipality for three years, resigning shortly before the last local elections.