Israeli Supreme Court Advances Hearing on Likud Primaries Dispute Over Candidate Eligibility

The Israeli Supreme Court has moved up the hearing on a petition challenging changes to the Likud party's primary election rules to Wednesday evening at 9 p.m., instead of the originally scheduled Thursday. The petition, filed by Knesset member Afif Abed, contests the decision allowing incumbent Knesset members, ministers, and deputy ministers to run in district slots traditionally reserved for new candidates. The court's decision to advance the hearing followed a request from attorney Ilan Bombach, representing one of the respondents, but the court clarified that no ruling is expected immediately after the hearing.

The petition centers on the significant issue of whether sitting public officials can compete in district primaries, which historically provided a more accessible path for newcomers to enter the Likud list. This change, approved by the Likud Constitution Committee in July and narrowly passed by the party's central committee later that month, has sparked intense internal conflict and legal challenges. The dispute escalated after a district court injunction halted a prior vote on the primary rules, highlighting the contentious nature of the reforms.

The timing of the court's decision is critical, as the Likud primaries are scheduled for next week, with September 8 as the deadline for submitting candidate lists to the Central Elections Committee. Party officials warn that without a prompt Supreme Court ruling, logistical preparations for the primaries, including printing ballots and organizing 90 polling stations, cannot be completed, potentially leading to the cancellation of the primaries.

The legal battle reflects broader political tensions within Likud, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's demand for eight reserved slots on the party list. The inclusion of incumbents in district races could significantly alter the balance of power, disadvantaging new candidates who rely on localized support. The Supreme Court's upcoming decision will determine the framework for candidate eligibility and the future of the Likud primaries.