Likud Committee Approves Netanyahu's New Primary Election Framework

The Likud Constitution Committee, chaired by Minister Haim Katz, approved a new primary election framework proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The decision came after renewed discussions involving Netanyahu and Katz, resolving internal disputes over reserved slots and party leader powers. Under the approved plan, Netanyahu will receive eight reserved positions on the party's Knesset list, with his authority to select these candidates no longer requiring additional party approval. This settles a major contention point, as Netanyahu initially demanded more reserved slots before a compromise was reached.

The new framework also introduces changes to the electoral districts, which will be finalized after the official voter registry is published on July 26. Current ministers, deputy ministers, and sitting Knesset members are barred from running in districts except for the non-Jewish sector district. Gender representation rules remain intact, ensuring women's representation even after reserved slots are applied. If fewer than three women are elected in the top 14 spots, only the tenth spot's gender guarantee will be waived.

Additionally, the framework includes an emergency mechanism for wartime scenarios. Should a war be declared with restrictions on gatherings between the conference approval and the primaries, Netanyahu may appoint a five-member committee of mayors to recommend candidate placements, with final decisions resting with him. The full details, including district divisions and reserved slot placements, will be published on the Likud website after final updates are completed.