Knesset Deputy Speaker Nissim Vaturi Defends Likud Primaries and Challenges High Court Critics

Nissim Vaturi, Deputy Speaker of the Knesset and Likud member, addressed the party's Constitution Committee, the issue of reserved slots for Prime Minister Netanyahu's loyalists, the upcoming primaries, and petitions against Knesset legislation filed with the Supreme Court. Vaturi expressed confidence in his re-election through the primaries, emphasizing his preference for this democratic process as it allows voters to assess the work done. He acknowledged the Prime Minister's request for eight reserved slots as significant but manageable, stating, "We will succeed with this."

Responding to reports that some Knesset members were asked not to run in the primaries, Vaturi denied receiving such requests and said he has received support from the party leadership, who recognize his loyalty over the past four years. He argued that the internal party elections reflect Likud's democratic nature rather than harming it. Regarding the reserved slots, he refrained from naming candidates but suggested that worthy contenders might have been elected through primaries. He concluded that after the internal process, the party is united and aims for a "great victory, God willing."

On the petitions submitted to the Supreme Court against laws passed by the Knesset, Vaturi challenged the justices to "take off their robes and run in the elections if they want to govern the country," adding, "If Amit thinks he is so strong, let him run for prime minister." Finally, on the post-election government formation, Vaturi stated unequivocally that Likud will not sit under any other party, asserting, "Likud will win and we will lead the right-wing parties."