Minister Amichai Shikli Urges Likud Members to Vote, Criticizes Bennett for Forgetting Public Service

On the day of the Likud party's internal primaries on Monday, Minister of Diaspora Affairs Amichai Shikli appeared on Channel 14's "Midday Journal" to encourage party members to vote and emphasize the importance of free voters over political deals. Shikli, who has been traveling across the country visiting polling stations, called on all Likud members to exercise their democratic right and select a strong, quality team for the upcoming general elections. He described the primaries as a marathon's final kilometers and stressed the need for serious candidates with firm ideology to face the challenging election ahead.

Shikli highlighted the significant influence of independent voters compared to organized party mechanisms, stating, "The importance of free voters is enormous." He expressed optimism about the results, praising the strength of current Knesset members, ministers, and new candidates across various districts. When asked about potential future government roles, Shikli declined to comment, focusing instead on the current race and the tough general election campaign ahead.

In a pointed critique, Shikli recalled his past cooperation with former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, accusing him of forgetting that politicians are public servants. He said, "There is no greater joy than when a supporter tells you, 'You are on my ballot, I voted for you.' In the end, we are public servants, something Bennett forgot." Shikli reaffirmed his commitment to the Likud movement as a continuation of the freedom movement and underscored the privilege of competing in free internal elections.

The primaries are seen as a critical step for Likud to assemble a winning list for the 2026 Knesset elections amid concerns over political deals and internal party dynamics. Over 26,000 party members have voted so far, with tensions reported over alleged forged ballots in some polling stations. Shikli's statements come amid ongoing battles within Likud, including Netanyahu's conflicts with other party figures and efforts to secure a strong candidate roster.