78 retired judges sign letter warning incoming government endangers democracy

A group of retired judges has signed a letter warning that moves planned by the incoming government endanger Israel’s democracy, the Kan public broadcaster reports.

The letter, signed by 78 former justices, wants that the planned legislation will erode citizens’ rights and remove the checks and balances on government power.

“The implementation of these steps that violate our values could fundamentally change the moral image of the State of Israel and damage it not only internally but also in the eyes of the world, international institutions and Jewish communities in the Diaspora,” the letter says.

“We call on the Knesset, the incoming government and the public in Israel to stop any move that could harm the rule of law, the foundations of our democratic regime, and to continue to respect the human and democratic values upon which the Declaration of Independence and our fundamental laws were founded,” it says.

Among the signators is former Supreme Court judge  Ayala Procaccia.