Gamliel Drops to 35th in Likud Primaries After Recount Amid Fraud Claims

Two weeks after the Likud party's internal primaries, the final results have been published, revealing a significant drop for Minister Gila Gamliel. Amidst allegations of fraud, Gamliel, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, has fallen to 35th place on the party's list, a position considered non-realistic for election. MK Eti Atiya has secured the 25th spot, which is considered a realistic position and is designated to ensure female representation.

The dramatic shift in rankings stems from a close contest for a female-reserved slot. The dispute was settled after the party raised concerns about improbable data from two ballot boxes in Be'er Ya'akov. Consequently, a decision was made last week to re-examine the ballots, and the final findings were released Sunday evening after appeals were processed.

The recount in Be'er Ya'akov led to a heated exchange between Gamliel and Minister Haim Katz, who is reportedly close to Atiya. Escalating the conflict, Gamliel filed a police complaint against Katz and Likud Director-General David Sharan. The disputed ballot boxes from Be'er Ya'akov were recounted at least three times last Tuesday, but the official announcement was delayed until Sunday.

According to the updated data, MK Moshe Saada is ranked 10th on the list before the integration of reserved slots, placing him at 17th assuming all reserved spots are filled. Minister Gamliel stated, "We have filed a petition to the court. I will not let Haim Katz steal the election from me for Eti Atiya." Minister Haim Katz responded, "This past week I have endured a barrage of lies and slander from Mrs. Gamliel, her family, and her associates. The only reason for my restraint is the good of the Likud on the eve of fateful elections for Israel's future."