Netanyahu's Former Lawyer Withdraws State Comptroller Candidacy

Attorney Michael Ravillo, who previously served as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's private lawyer, has withdrawn his candidacy for the position of State Comptroller. This decision comes after the High Court of Justice (Bagatz) ordered a new election for the role due to irregularities in the voting process.

Ravillo's appointment had been frozen by an interim order from the High Court in July, which mandated a repeat election by the Knesset following claims that lawmakers had violated the secrecy of the ballot by documenting their votes. The court emphasized that the secrecy of the vote is not discretionary for Knesset members and that any waiver impacts other members, potentially enabling pressure.

Ravillo's withdrawal occurs as the opposition bloc prepares for a new election when the Knesset reconvenes. The position of State Comptroller has been vacant for months since the previous comptroller, Matanyahu Engelman, completed his term. The possibility of opening the race to new candidates, in addition to retired Judge Yosef Elron, is currently being considered.

Recently, Attorney Dean Livna, acting Director-General of the Central Elections Committee, emerged as a potential candidate, with three Knesset members from the outgoing coalition and opposition reportedly exploring his candidacy. The High Court's decision to freeze Ravillo's appointment was a result of petitions arguing that Knesset members who photographed themselves while voting compromised the principle of secrecy.

Following the court's ruling, some coalition figures criticized the judges. Minister Bezalel Smotrich accused the Supreme Court justices of repeatedly "crossing red lines," while Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stated the court was "trampling on the Knesset." Minister of Communications Shlomo Karai had even urged Ravillo to assume the role immediately despite the court order, declaring it was "time to say no to Bagatz."