Kiryat Shmona Mayor Attacked by Rival After Netanyahu Visit
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Kiryat Shmona Mayor Avichai Stern's public support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sparked criticism from rival Eli Zafrani, who accuses Stern of misleading residents about government aid. Zafrani claims Stern's stance shifted due to visible government investments and public anger. Netanyahu publicly praised Zafrani during his visit, acknowledging his advocacy for city development. Zafrani, while pleased with investments, blames Stern for the city's slow recovery and proposes incentives for residents' return, while still planning to challenge Stern in the upcoming elections.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Kiryat Shmona Mayor Avichai Stern publicly supported Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, drawing criticism from rival Eli Zafrani.
- Zafrani accused Stern of misleading residents about the extent of government aid and assistance for the city.
- Prime Minister Netanyahu publicly praised Eli Zafrani for his role in Kiryat Shmona's development during a visit.
- Zafrani proposed incentives for residents to return to Kiryat Shmona, including free tuition and financial grants.
- Eli Zafrani intends to challenge Mayor Stern in the upcoming local elections, expressing confidence in his victory.
Kiryat Shmona Mayor Avichai Stern, who had been critical of the government for two years, publicly supported Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his recent visit to the city. This shift has drawn sharp criticism from Stern's political rival, Eli Zafrani, who accused the mayor of misleading residents about the extent of government aid.
Zafrani claims Stern's change of heart stems from residents witnessing tangible government investments, such as road construction and facility renovations, funded by the government and the Prime Minister. He asserted that Stern realized the public was angry and that the mayor's support for Netanyahu was a response to this. Zafrani also alleged that Stern falsely claimed the city received no funds for reconstruction, stating that the government had indeed provided millions.
During his visit, Netanyahu met with Zafrani, publicly crediting him for his role in the city's development and their decades-long friendship. Netanyahu acknowledged Zafrani's persistent advocacy for projects like a new neighborhood, roads, and the university. Zafrani expressed surprise and emotion at the Prime Minister's public praise, recounting his own efforts to secure the university's location in Kiryat Shmona.
Despite acknowledging the government's investments, Zafrani argued that the city is still struggling to recover and that many residents have not returned. He blamed Mayor Stern for failing to actively encourage young people and residents to come back. Zafrani proposed a plan to incentivize returnees, including free university tuition for three years, living stipends, grants for young couples, and reduced property taxes. He also emphasized the need for new employment opportunities, defense factories, and expanding Nvidia's presence.
Zafrani stated that if he were mayor, he would work tirelessly and aggressively seek funding, suggesting he would even camp out in the Knesset. He indicated that despite Stern's public support for Netanyahu, he remains committed to challenging Stern in the next local elections, expressing confidence in his victory due to residents' growing awareness of his contributions. Zafrani views Stern's praise for Netanyahu as a belated acknowledgment of the government aid he has been advocating for.
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