Odelia Kadmi Criticizes Likud's Reserved Seats, Claims Deep Trust Crisis Ahead of Primaries

Odelia Kadmi sharply criticized the Likud party's use of reserved seats, arguing that this practice diminishes the influence of party members in shaping the candidate list. She described the move as reflecting a deep trust crisis between the Likud leadership and its grassroots members. Kadmi emphasized that despite the government's achievements during wartime, she expects more vigilance and action, especially given ongoing security threats and the aftermath of recent attacks.

Kadmi expressed frustration that the government appears hesitant to confront threats at Israel's borders and warned that the next right-wing government must complete the work started by the current administration. She highlighted the convergence of security and judicial challenges as a critical test for Israel's democracy and governance.

She called for assertive, genuine, and patriotic public representatives, demanding tangible actions over rhetoric and a purge of political opportunism. Kadmi condemned the announcement of three additional reserved seats, which further restrict voters' ability to influence the party's direction once every four years, calling it an insult to Likud voters.

Specifically, she questioned the prioritization of figures like Haim Katz, Gideon Sa'ar, and Israel Katz for reserved seats, challenging their recent contributions and the rationale behind shielding them from primary competition. Kadmi framed this as a sign that the leadership does not trust the members' judgment and is making decisions on their behalf.

She reminded that Likud is a popular national movement whose strength derives from its members, who should be partners in shaping the party's path and choosing its representatives. Kadmi warned that these recent moves harm the party's soul and its identity as a people's party, citing Menachem Begin's founding vision. She concluded by stressing the existential threat facing Israel and the erosion of Jewish identity, questioning the message Likud sends when it imposes candidates on right-wing voters who may be unfit to serve.

Kadmi's critique comes from deep concern for the national right-wing camp, the future of Jewish identity in Israel, and respect for voters as sovereign.