Likud Source Warns of Ultra-Orthodox Influence in Party Primaries

During the ongoing Likud party primaries, internal sources have expressed serious concerns about the significant influence of organized ultra-Orthodox groups on the party's candidate list for the Knesset. According to a report by Walla, a Likud insider estimates that at least 30% of voters in Jerusalem participating in the primaries are not Likud supporters and have no ideological ties to the party. The source accused ultra-Orthodox leaders of exploiting the system, stating, "The ultra-Orthodox commanders have cracked the method."

Additionally, some ultra-Orthodox voters in the primaries claimed they were paid 400 shekels to vote, highlighting allegations of vote manipulation. This phenomenon is said to explain unusual behavior by certain elected officials during the last Knesset term. The insider pointed to members of Knesset like Hanoch Milwitsky, who unusually defended ultra-Orthodox interests, saying, "Now everything is clear. There is control by ultra-Orthodox groups. They are trying to steal the Likud."

These revelations underscore tensions within the ruling party regarding the integrity of the primary elections and the influence of external groups on its political direction. The situation raises questions about the future composition and ideological coherence of the Likud party's parliamentary faction.