Netanyahu Faces Dramatic Law to Block Premiership Post-Election
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
Political commentator Amit Segal reported that Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Lieberman plans to propose a "Accused Law" after the upcoming elections to prevent individuals facing indictments, like Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, from forming a government. The law, designed to pass Supreme Court scrutiny, would take effect in the future, potentially blocking Netanyahu even with a majority. However, senior figures in the "change bloc" reportedly fear severe public backlash and a "cold civil war" if the law is enacted.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Avigdor Lieberman plans a "Accused Law" to prevent indicted politicians from forming governments.
- The law could block Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from forming a government post-election.
- The legislation is designed to take effect in a future Knesset to pass judicial review.
- Senior figures in the "change bloc" reportedly fear severe public backlash and "cold civil war."
- The plan's success may depend on who receives the first mandate to form a government.
Political commentator Amit Segal revealed a significant political maneuver planned by Yisrael Beiteinu chairman Avigdor Lieberman that could prevent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from forming a government, even if he secures a Knesset majority. The proposed legislation, dubbed the "Accused Law," aims to disqualify individuals facing criminal indictments from receiving the mandate to form a government from the President.
According to Segal's report in "Israel Hayom," Lieberman intends to introduce the bill in the first week of the next Knesset. He may even condition his support for a "change bloc" candidate for Knesset Speaker on other parties backing this law. Orit Farkash-Hacohen is mentioned as a potential candidate for Speaker.
The crucial aspect of the plan is its application: it would not prevent Netanyahu from running in elections but would bar him from forming a government. To increase its chances of withstanding judicial review by the High Court of Justice (Bagatz), the law is designed to take effect from the 27th Knesset, not the one elected in the upcoming vote. This means the next Knesset could pass the law, but its impact would be delayed until the subsequent election cycle.
Segal notes that even if Netanyahu wins a majority in the 27th Knesset, this legal barrier could prevent him from forming a government. Attempts to amend the law post-election could also face difficulties, referencing a previous Bagatz ruling on a "recusal law" that postponed its effect to the following Knesset.
However, Segal also highlights significant internal opposition within the "change bloc" itself. Senior figures are reportedly concerned that passing such legislation could lead to severe public confrontation and a "cold civil war," potentially damaging the Supreme Court's standing. Despite these reservations, Segal believes it will be difficult for these figures to publicly oppose the bill.
An alternative scenario, according to Segal, could see the plan fail if the President grants Netanyahu the first mandate. In such a case, the Likud would control the arrangements committee for six weeks, and the "change bloc" would only have four weeks to advance fundamental changes to Basic Laws, potentially leading to further legal disputes.
Mentioned
