Beersheba Council Members Demand Deputy Mayor's Removal Amid Assault Charges

Members of the "New Vision for Beersheba" faction are calling for the dismissal of Deputy Mayor Shimon Tubul following his indictment on violent assault charges. They also accuse him of unlawfully closing the city council plenary session to the public. The faction demands explanations from Mayor Rubik Danilovich regarding the criteria for suspending a deputy mayor facing criminal charges and whether Tubul's official duties and representation might be revoked. They question how his continued tenure aligns with the municipality's obligation to uphold public trust and maintain a clear stance against violence.

The faction emphasizes that Tubul retains the presumption of innocence and that their concerns focus on consistent public policy rather than a judgment on his guilt. When faction members, including Atiyas, arrived at the municipality, they found the council chamber closed to the public, which they say violates legal requirements for open council meetings. They demand the reopening of the chamber and Tubul's removal, stating, "There is no place for violence!"

A legal opinion obtained by the faction confirms that council meetings must be public unless closed for state security or privacy reasons, with such closures requiring the city attorney's approval. The municipality responded that the closure was due to security considerations, public order, and the need for a respectful discussion environment in a hall lacking physical separation. The council session was held without an audience but was broadcast live on the city's official Facebook page to ensure transparency and accessibility for residents.