Gafni, Maklev to leave Knesset as ultra-Orthodox Degel HaTorah party refreshes lineup
Lando cited the need to "refresh" the party's presence in the Knesset as the reason for the two members' departures and requested that Gafni remain the party's chairman.
Rabbi Dov Lando, spiritual leader of the Degel HaTorah faction of the ultra-Orthodox United Torah Judaism party, informed MK Moshe Gafni and Rabbi Uri Maklev that they will be leaving the Knesset. Lando explained that the decision was made due to the need to refresh the party's presence in the Knesset. Degel HaTorah's chairman, Moshe Gafni, will remain in his position despite his departure.
The two members have been in the spotlight recently due to their support for the controversial Basic Law: Torah Study bill. This bill asserts that Torah study is a fundamental value in Jewish heritage and Israeli society. The bill was passed in July with a majority of 63 to 52 votes. In May, Rabbi Lando had indicated that Degel Hatorah members could work towards dissolving the Knesset due to disagreements over the haredi conscription bill.
This ultimately led to tensions between Lando and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as the potential dissolution of the Knesset.
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Also reported by 2 other outlets
- Veteran Haredi MK Moshe Gafni to be removed as leader of UTJ’s Degel HaTorah faction timesofisrael.com
- Haredi shakeup: Gafni, Maklev reportedly ousted from Degel HaTorah slate israelnationalnews.com
