Mandelblit says no conflict of interest in PM’s role in broadcaster issue

Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit says even though Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stepped down as communications minister he can remain involved in the public broadcaster issue, nor does his involvement constitute a conflict of interest.

“Regarding the media, there are specific situations in which the prime minister is prevented from handling… however these restrictions do not apply to the entire media landscape, and there are issue in which the prime minister is entitled to be involved in without presenting a conflict of interest,” Mandelblit says in a legal opinion.

The legal opinion is given in response to requests by lawmakers seeking clarification whether Netanyahu’s involvement in the debate over the new Israel Broadcasting Association was allowed.