Yisrael Beytenu MK Orly Levy-Abekasis announces she’s quitting her party, which is expected to join the coalition.
The lawmaker, who will remain in the opposition, says her party has not taken advantage of “the opportunity facing us as a party, which is set to enter the government” to advance social issues.
“It didn’t happen,” she says. “And I can’t remain indifferent.”
Orly Levy Avukasis take part in a Finance Committee meeting at the Knesset on June 22, 2015. (Hadas Parush/Flash90 )
“Therefore, I decided not to take part in the current political process, and in light of the situation, I am announcing the end of my time in Yisrael Beytenu. I do this with my head held high, knowingly, fully aware that this may create hurdles in my parliamentary work. I am not afraid of that. I intend to work as a Knesset member, in accordance with my conscience and entirely for the public good.”
The lawmaker makes her announcement as negotiations between Yisrael Beytenu and Likud are ongoing, with both sides indicating a final deal will be signed shortly. According to the latest reports, Liberman dropped demands to advance conversion reforms, civil unions, and increased IDF enlistment for the ultra-Orthodox.
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Thursday, May 19, 2016
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