Likud activists and central committee members are increasingly angered by the continued delay in advancing the communications bill, one of the right-wing camp’s flagship media reforms. They are blaming Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, saying his conduct is one of the main reasons the measure has not moved forward.
According to party figures, the bill has been stalled for weeks because of thousands of objections filed against it. In such cases, they say, the Knesset can use the so-called “special procedure” to bypass parliamentary obstruction and keep the legislation moving, but Ohana has consistently opposed that step.
Over the past week, including on Thursday, activists and central committee members from cities and towns across Israel, including Pardes Hanna, Harish, Ramat Gan, Zikhron Yaakov, Caesarea, Holon, Kiryat Gat, Hadera, Ofakim, Sasa and Safed, contacted Ohana and Knesset Director General Dror Israely. They demanded that the communications bill be advanced and voiced frustration over the delay.
Party members say many Likud voters do not understand why a right-wing government with a parliamentary majority is struggling to pass a promised reform they say is meant to increase competition in the communications market and reduce regulatory barriers. The criticism is also growing against the backdrop of what Likud sees as a sustained public campaign by Channel 12 and other media outlets against the reform. One activist said, “It is impossible for such an important law for right-wing voters to be stuck for weeks because of parliamentary tricks. The public expects results, not excuses.” The bill remains tied up in Knesset committees, and pressure on the party leadership is intensifying.
