Likud's Hanoch Milwiczky Reveals Personal Toll of Politics and Calls for Judicial Overhaul
In a detailed interview on the "Kipot Barzel" program on the Srugim website, Likud MK Hanoch Milwiczky, chairman of the Finance Committee, opened up about the political struggles he faces, the heavy personal price he has paid, and his vision for a complete restructuring of Israel's judicial system rather than mere reform.
Milwiczky expressed confidence in Likud's prospects ahead of the elections 87 days away, noting that the party is currently focused on finalizing its Knesset list. He believes the public will shift further right and that Likud remains the dominant right-wing party. Regarding his own political path, he clarified he is running on the national list and emphasized that Likud voters recognize who truly works for them.
Reflecting on his year and a month as Finance Committee chair, a role long associated with MK Moshe Gafni, Milwiczky highlighted the committee's significant influence, especially in passing budgets during wartime and election years. He proudly noted blocking Treasury proposals to increase VAT exemptions on imports and leading parliamentary votes against such measures.
Milwiczky criticized the parliamentary legal counsel and government legal advisors, accusing them of political agendas aimed at undermining government policies. He described the government legal counsel as a "group of criminals" and accused them of rebellion against the state. He recounted an incident where legal counsel allegedly pressured opposition MKs to retract support for increased benefits to bereaved families.
On a personal note, Milwiczky revealed the severe toll politics has taken on his family life, stating, "I paid the highest price, my family broke apart." After more than 20 years of marriage, his home dissolved amid attacks on his family due to his political role. He also dismissed accusations of being a "Bibi supporter" as a longstanding tactic within Likud to undermine the party.
Looking ahead, Milwiczky declared he no longer believes in fixing the Supreme Court through appointing conservative judges but advocates for dismantling and rebuilding the judicial system. He proposes establishing a constitutional court with judges appointed by the Knesset for fixed terms and removing the Supreme Court's administrative powers, effectively closing the High Court of Justice.
Milwiczky also sharply criticized opposition leaders, particularly Gadi Eizenkot and Yair Golan, labeling Golan "dangerous" and accusing them of anti-right-wing agendas motivated by hatred. He controversially stated a preference for Mansour Abbas over Golan, citing Abbas's known positions.
In a brief word association game, Milwiczky described Prime Minister Netanyahu as "the greatest leader of modern Israel," Smotrich as a "respected rival," Gali Baharav-Miara as "very dangerous," Kaplan as a "disease," and the Israeli people as "alive."
