Netanyahu Faces Backlash Over Proposal to Cancel Likud Primaries

Prime Minister and Likud chairman Benjamin Netanyahu has sparked sharp criticism by proposing to abolish the party's primary elections for selecting its Knesset list. Instead, he suggests transferring the selection power to a committee appointed by the party leadership, alongside expanding the number of reserved slots for the chairman, including four in the top ten positions. Critics argue this move undermines the democratic principle that party members have long enjoyed, the right to choose their representatives through primaries.

For decades, Likud has presented itself as a democratic party where members decide the candidate list, but in recent years, Netanyahu has increased the number of reserved slots allowing him to place candidates without member input. The latest proposal would further concentrate power in Netanyahu's hands, with opponents warning it risks turning Likud into a "one-man party." Some within Likud, including MK David Bitan and the party's internal auditor, have voiced strong opposition, warning that canceling primaries could harm the party's identity and cohesion.

Netanyahu's camp defends the change by citing current security challenges that complicate holding primaries and the high costs involved. He also claims primaries can create factionalism within the party. However, critics dismiss these reasons, asserting Netanyahu's true motive is to control the composition of the Knesset list and prevent members from choosing candidates who might oppose him. The debate is ongoing, with Likud expected to decide in the coming weeks whether to adopt the new system or maintain the traditional primaries.

The controversy comes shortly after the Democratic Party held primaries with over 100,000 participants, highlighting the irony of Likud's move away from member-driven candidate selection. This development raises questions about the future democratic nature of Israel's largest right-wing party.