Ethiopian-Israeli Leaders Demand MK Tsega Melaku's Inclusion on Likud List

Spiritual leaders, rabbis, community heads, and public activists from the Ethiopian-Israeli community have issued a sharp ultimatum to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Justice Minister Yariv Levin. In a letter signed by dozens of prominent community figures, they demand that MK Tsega Melaku be guaranteed a spot on the Likud party list for the 26th Knesset elections. The letter warns that excluding Melaku could cause significant disappointment among many Likud supporters within the Ethiopian community, potentially pushing them to consider alternative political options.

The signatories describe Melaku as the "most prominent and influential representative of the Ethiopian-Israeli community within Likud," highlighting her over 30 years of dedicated public service. They emphasize her contributions across education, health, welfare, rights of IDF victims, senior citizens, and other public issues. Melaku is portrayed as enjoying broad public trust and as a vital electoral asset for Likud.

The letter stresses that the Ethiopian community represents a significant electoral force in the upcoming elections and that Melaku's inclusion would strengthen their confidence in the party. Conversely, her exclusion could be perceived as undermining the community's status and representation within Likud. The letter concludes with a direct appeal to Netanyahu and Levin to ensure continued Ethiopian community representation in the Knesset through Melaku's candidacy.