Bennett Bids Farewell to MK Beliak, Praising His Dedication

Former Knesset Member Vladimir Beliak, who served for six years representing the Yesh Atid party, has departed from the Knesset. Beliak will not be returning to the parliament as he was placed 16th on the "Achva" list, led by Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid, which secured only 12 mandates. Naftali Bennett, chairman of the "Achva" list, bid a warm farewell to Beliak, expressing gratitude and admiration. Bennett began his tribute by stating, "Not just in my name, but in the name of all citizens of Israel, who owe you so much." He highlighted Beliak's quiet but crucial work in the Knesset over recent years, emphasizing his diligent management of public funds with "sacred awe."

Bennett lauded Beliak's efforts in the Finance Committee, noting he worked "days and nights, reviewing every clause and ensuring every shekel." He also shared Beliak's personal story: born in Siberia, Beliak has dealt with a stutter since age three. He immigrated to Israel in 1998 without knowing Hebrew and initially worked as a parking lot attendant, facing rejection for other jobs due to his speech impediment. Bennett described Beliak as embodying the "essence of Israeli-ness" and expressed confidence they would work together again, calling his departure from the Knesset "just the beginning."

During his term, which began in 2021, Beliak was notably active in the Finance Committee, demonstrating high attendance rates. He ranked first in participation in Knesset debates during the 25th Knesset. His team described his round-the-clock efforts. Beliak himself shared an emotional farewell message, referencing his consistent presence in discussions since the 2021 recess and defining the Knesset as "the people's house and the holy of holies of democracy."