Likud MK David Bitan Files Urgent Petition Against Netanyahu Over Primary Election Rules

Tensions are escalating within Israel's Likud party as MK David Bitan has submitted an urgent petition to the party's court challenging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's control over the upcoming primary election regulations. Bitan expressed dissatisfaction with recent agreements between Netanyahu and Likud's Constitution Committee chairman, Haim Katz, accusing the current process of being unfair and favoring Netanyahu. He demands the right to submit his own election regulation proposal directly to the party conference, arguing that without this, Netanyahu's proposal will be the only viable option, giving him a significant advantage.

Bitan also called for a fair voting mechanism allowing delegates to choose among multiple proposals, with a runoff if no option achieves a majority, ensuring a democratic outcome reflecting the delegates' true preferences. He emphasized the need for a secret ballot due to the sensitive nature of the issue and to protect delegates from political pressure, maintaining the integrity and trust in the process.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu requested another postponement of the Constitution Committee meeting originally scheduled for July 9, citing urgent personal constraints. However, Katz announced the committee would convene as planned. The party clarified that the extension request was a precautionary measure, not a final decision. The primary elections are set for August 4, but finalizing the election regulations remains unresolved, leaving many candidates uncertain about their status.

Separately, Netanyahu secured agreements to reserve ten secured spots on the party list for himself, including nine within the top 30 positions and one additional spot around number 35. The ongoing disputes highlight internal struggles over control and fairness ahead of the crucial primaries.