Shas Party Weighs Leadership Change Amid Political Uncertainty
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
Shas party chairman Aryeh Deri is reportedly considering resigning from the Knesset, with former minister Ariel Atias emerging as a potential successor. The party is on high alert for a decision, which could come as soon as tonight. This potential leadership change follows Shas's reduced mandate count in the recent elections and the ongoing political deadlock.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Aryeh Deri may resign from the Knesset, potentially leading to a leadership change in Shas.
- Former minister Ariel Atias is considered the leading candidate to replace Deri as Shas chairman.
- Deri might seek a leadership role outside the Knesset, such as 'President of Shas'.
- The Council of Torah Sages' support for Deri's alternative role is not guaranteed.
- Shas secured only six mandates in the recent 26th Knesset elections.
The Shas party and its Council of Torah Sages are on high alert as Chairman Aryeh Deri is expected to decide whether to resign and forgo his seat in the 26th Knesset. The party anticipates a dramatic decision could come as early as this evening. Sources close to Deri suggest he is leaning towards stepping down from active Knesset duty, preferring a leadership role outside the list, possibly as a movement chairman or under a new title like "President of Shas." If Deri does resign from the Knesset, former minister Ariel Atias is being eyed as the leading candidate to head the party in the Knesset. However, political circles note that Deri may not automatically receive the backing of the Council of Torah Sages for a different leadership position.
These significant developments within Shas occur against the backdrop of the party's weakened performance in the 26th Knesset elections, securing only six mandates. The broader political system is also facing a deep stalemate. The final mandate count gave the right-wing and Haredi bloc only 53 seats, compared to 48 for the opposition bloc.
