Netanyahu Considers Reserving Top Likud Slots for Surprise Names

Prime Minister and Likud leader Benjamin Netanyahu is weighing whether to reserve several senior figures for the top of the party’s Knesset slate in the next election. According to a report by Kan Reshet Bet, one prominent possible returnee is Moshe Kahlon, after it was reported about a month ago that a plea deal had been reached in his securities-reporting case, which could allow him to run if he chooses. Another figure under consideration is Gideon Saar, who has rejoined Likud and may receive a reserved spot instead of competing in the primaries. Haifa Mayor Haim Bibas, one of the most prominent and longest-serving figures in Israeli local government, is also being examined as a possible addition.

Netanyahu is expected to seek authority to reserve between eight and nine candidates on the party list. Under the model being discussed, three would be placed in the top 10, two more in slots 11 to 20, and at least three additional candidates in the 21 to 30 range.

The internal debate comes after the Likud’s court ruled yesterday, following a petition by MK David Bitan, that unless the party constitution is changed, Likud candidates must be chosen in primaries rather than by a nominating committee. That ruling is expected to affect discussions inside the party over how many reserved spots Netanyahu will request before the next election campaign.