Opposition leaders move to oust Knesset Speaker Ohana before forming government - report
At the same time, Arab party leaders expressed that they were insulted not to have been asked to take part in the opposition bloc's negotiations for the next government.
Opposition leaders are considering a move to oust Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana before forming a new government, according to reports. The opposition bloc has agreed on replacing Ohana, despite not yet deciding who will head the next government. The speaker's role is crucial as they control the parliamentary agenda, which would give the opposition sway over votes, legislation, and committee appointments.
To replace Ohana, the opposition bloc would require a majority of Knesset's 120 members behind a single candidate, possibly with support from Arab parties. Possible candidates for the position include Chili Tropper, Matan Kahana, Elazar Stern, Merav Ben-Ari, Eitan Ginzburg, Efrat Rayten, and Oded Forer. Yair Lapid was reportedly considered by the bloc, while Yisrael Beytenu chairman Avigdor Liberman estimated that a third of outgoing coalition lawmakers might vote against Ohana.
The opposition's intention is to negotiate for a parliamentary majority, establish an inquiry into the October 7 attacks, implement compulsory military service for all, and repeal judicial reform laws. However, Arab party leaders feel marginalized by the Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot, who outlined his top intentions and issues for the new government.
Joint List chairman Prof. Yousef Jabareen called for a Jewish-Arab partnership, emphasizing that change requires equal treatment.
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