Likud Official Warns of Arab "Takeover" Amidst Record Voter Turnout
Translated & summarized from Now 14 by baba
A senior Likud official warned of an Arab "takeover" due to record voter turnout, which saw a 65% increase in the Arab sector compared to previous elections. This surge, alongside reports of irregularities and an alleged vote-buying scheme involving a Ra'am activist, has heightened fears within the Likud that the right-wing bloc could lose power. The party is urging its supporters to vote immediately to counter the trend.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Likud official warns of Arab "takeover" due to record voter turnout.
- Arab voter participation surged by 65% compared to previous elections.
- Reports of irregularities and alleged vote-buying schemes have surfaced.
- Concerns exist about a potential left-wing government reliant on Arab parties.
- Likud urges supporters to vote before polls close to prevent power loss.
A senior Likud official has issued a stark warning regarding unprecedented voter turnout among the Arab sector in the recent elections, suggesting it signals an intent to "take over the country" as revenge for Israeli actions in Gaza. This statement comes as official figures show a 65% increase in Arab voter participation compared to previous elections, with turnout reaching 64.3% at the time of the statement, significantly higher than the 39% recorded in the last election at the same hour.
The official expressed grave concern that this surge, coupled with a more moderate increase in right-wing strongholds, could lead to the right-wing bloc losing power and a left-wing government being formed, potentially reliant on Arab parties. The concern is amplified by numerous reports of irregularities at polling stations within the Arab sector, including alleged missing ballot envelopes and voter information being handled improperly outside polling booths.
Further fueling the anxiety, a senior activist from the Ra'am party and a figure from the "Siyua 48" organization were reportedly arrested on suspicion of involvement in vote-buying schemes. This organization has also faced accusations of transferring funds to Hamas's military wing in Gaza.
In response to the high turnout from the left and Arab sectors, Likud and other national camp parties are urging their supporters to vote before polls close. Party leaders had previously requested an extension of voting hours due to large crowds at polling stations, emphasizing the need for every right-wing voter to cast their ballot and encourage others to do the same to prevent a loss of power.
