Veteran Shas MK Yaakov Margi Delivers Emotional Farewell Speech After 24 Years in Knesset

Yaakov Margi, a senior member of the Shas party and Israel's Minister of Welfare, delivered a heartfelt farewell speech in the Knesset as he prepares to conclude his 24-year tenure as a parliamentarian. Reflecting on nearly five decades of public service, Margi recounted his journey from founding a community center at age 17 in Beersheba's neighborhood D to becoming one of the longest-serving and most respected members of the Knesset.

In his speech, Margi emphasized the honor he felt serving the Israeli public, highlighting his commitment to representing all citizens regardless of their religious background, whether they wore a black, knitted, or transparent kippah, or none at all. He described his parliamentary career as a significant chapter spanning 49 years of public involvement, expressing pride in his achievements in education, welfare, and child advocacy.

Margi concluded by thanking his colleagues, the Shas party, and the Knesset Speaker, acknowledging the support he received throughout his career. His farewell marked the end of one of the most prominent and enduring political careers in Shas history, leaving a legacy of dedicated public service and community leadership.