MK Ayman Odeh Involved in Unapproved Non-Profit Formation
Translated & summarized from Calcalist by baba
Member of Knesset Ayman Odeh was involved in establishing a non-profit organization, "Ethica Amun Trust," and raising funds for it during his term without Knesset Ethics Committee approval. The organization aims to foster Jewish-Arab connections and peace. This comes as Odeh is under investigation for allegedly receiving funds from a foreign entity. Odeh claims the investigation is political persecution, while the non-profit states its operations are lawful. He did not seek re-election to the 26th Knesset.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- MK Ayman Odeh involved in forming "Ethica Amun Trust" without Ethics Committee approval.
- Odeh also reportedly raised funds for the non-profit during his Knesset term.
- The "Ethica Amun Trust" aims to promote connections between Jews and Arabs for peace.
- Odeh is under investigation for allegedly receiving funds from a foreign entity.
- Odeh claims the investigation is political persecution by the current government.
- Odeh did not run for the 26th Knesset.
Member of Knesset Ayman Odeh was involved in establishing a public benefit company, "Ethica Amun Trust," during his term in the 25th Knesset, according to a source within the organization. It is also reported that he raised funds for the non-profit without seeking the required approval from the Knesset Ethics Committee. Israeli law prohibits Knesset members from engaging in additional occupations unless they are voluntary and unpaid. However, even volunteer work is restricted if it could create a conflict of interest, such as between donors' interests and the public good. To proceed with such activities, MKs must obtain approval from the Ethics Committee.
The "Ethica Amun Trust" was founded in February, while Odeh was serving as a Member of Knesset. He is listed as a shareholder, and the organization's stated goal is to foster connections between Jews and Arabs, promoting grassroots activities for peace. Among its directors are individuals involved in political left-wing organizations. According to Samach Iraqi, Deputy Mayor of Tayibe and a close associate of Odeh, one of the company's projects is to gather one million signatures from Jews and Arabs supporting coexistence and peace.
This development occurs amidst an ongoing investigation by the Shin Bet and police into allegations that Odeh received hundreds of thousands of shekels in cash from a foreign entity, allegedly to encourage voting in the Arab sector. The source of these funds is being examined, with suspicion pointing to a foreign governmental entity. The Attorney General's office recently stated that the Shin Bet has not yet provided the necessary investigation materials to authorize the questioning of Knesset members, including Odeh.
Odeh responded to the investigation on X (formerly Twitter), attributing it to political persecution by Prime Minister Netanyahu and "fascists" fearing the loss of power. He asserted that the high voter turnout among Arab citizens had alarmed them and predicted the investigation would quickly collapse. He urged continued responsible and determined action to fundamentally change the government. Odeh did not run for the 26th Knesset. A response from Odeh and "Amun Trust" stated their activities comply with the law. The Knesset has not yet commented.
Mentioned
