Netanyahu's Ex-Lawyer Withdraws State Comptroller Bid After Election

Rabilo was initially elected to the post in June with 61 votes, defeating retired Supreme Court Justice Yosef Elron. However, the High Court of Justice subsequently invalidated the vote because Knesset members documented their ballots, violating the principle of voting secrecy. The court issued an interim order in July freezing the appointment and mandating a new election, which did not take place before the previous Knesset's term ended.

With Rabilo's withdrawal, Justice Elron remains a leading candidate. The coalition reportedly favors Elron over any potential nominee from the opposition bloc, which now holds a majority. The position of State Comptroller has been vacant for several months since Matanyahu Engelman completed his term, and the Knesset is expected to determine how to proceed with the election once the new parliament is sworn in.