search

Likud denies report it is laying groundwork to appoint Deri as alternate PM

Shas leader Aryeh Deri at the Knesset on December 13, 2022. (Yonatan Sindel/ Flash90)
Shas leader Aryeh Deri at the Knesset on December 13, 2022. (Yonatan Sindel/ Flash90)

The Likud party denies a report on the Kan public broadcaster this evening that it is laying the groundwork to appoint Shas chair Aryeh Deri as alternate prime minister if his attempt to become a minister is struck down by the court.

Deri, who previously was convicted and sentenced to prison for bribery, struck a deal last year for tax offenses that saw him resign from the Knesset and avoid a charge of “breach of trust.” That deal has thrown his ability to become a minister in the next government into legal question, and Likud chair Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly concerned the High Court could attempt to bar him from doing so.

According to Kan, Netanyahu has been exploring the possibility of instead appointing Deri as alternate prime minister, since court precedent bans those convicted of breach of trust from becoming cabinet ministers, but not prime minister — or alternate prime minister, which is a largely ceremonial position.

Never miss breaking news on Israel
Get notifications to stay updated
You're subscribed
image
Register for free
and continue reading
Registering also lets you comment on articles and helps us improve your experience. It takes just a few seconds.
Already registered? Enter your email to sign in.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Or Continue with
By registering you agree to the terms and conditions. Once registered, you’ll receive our Daily Edition email for free.
Register to continue
Or Continue with
Log in to continue
Sign in or Register
Or Continue with
check your email
Check your email
We sent an email to you at .
It has a link that will sign you in.