Shas Leader Arie Deri to Remain Party Chairman, Vacate Knesset Seat
Translated & summarized from JDN by baba
Shas movement chairman Arie Deri will vacate his Knesset seat but remain party leader, following instructions from the Council of Torah Sages. Deri stated the move will allow him to connect more with the public and activists across Israel. He will continue to lead the party and guide its Knesset members from outside parliament.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Arie Deri will remain chairman of the Shas movement but will leave his Knesset seat.
- The decision follows instructions from the Council of Torah Sages.
- Deri aims to focus on connecting with the public and activists nationwide.
- He will continue to lead Shas meetings and guide Knesset members.
- The move is described as unprecedented for the Shas movement.
Arie Deri, the chairman of the Shas movement, announced a significant decision to step down from his Knesset seat while retaining his leadership position. This move comes following directives from the Council of Torah Sages, who instructed him to continue as party chairman. Deri stated that his departure from the Knesset is intended to allow him to focus on extensive tours across the country, strengthening connections with activists and the public.
Despite vacating his seat, Deri emphasized that he will continue to lead the movement actively. He plans to convene faction meetings weekly, guide Knesset members, and closely monitor committee work and legislation. Deri affirmed his commitment to operating as Shas chairman under the guidance of the Council of Torah Sages, aiming to "restore the crown to its former glory" and safeguard Torah study and Israel's Jewish identity.
The decision was made with the approval and blessing of the Council of Torah Sages, who Deri credited for enabling this transition. The move is seen as unprecedented within the Shas movement, prioritizing broader public engagement and leadership from outside the parliamentary role.
