Netanyahu Fires Controversial Minister But Continues Reform; widespread protests in the country / Article

Dismisses the minister, but continues the reform

Arje Deri, the leader of the ultra-orthodox Jewish party “Shas”, has been found guilty of tax evasion. Israel’s Supreme Court has ruled that he had given the impression of leaving politics in order to receive a lesser sentence.

Netanyahu has stated that the court’s ruling ignores the wishes of the people, although the party is allowed to continue working in the government. This is the first blow to the Netanyahu government, which started work just less than a month ago.

Israel’s new government also plans to implement sweeping justice reforms, including giving lawmakers more say in choosing judges and rejecting supreme court rulings. Since Israel does not have a constitution, the Supreme Court has the power to overturn laws it deems discriminatory or inappropriate.

The people of Israel are protesting

Opponents believe that the government’s initiative threatens the foundations of the country’s democracy.

Israeli media, citing police, reported that around 100,000 people protested in the capital. Former Prime Minister Yairs Lapid also participated in the protest.

The government argues that an imbalance of power has given judges and government legal advisers too much influence over lawmaking and governance. Netanyahu has vowed to press ahead with reforms despite opposition.

One of the more controversial proposals is a clause that would give Israel’s parliament the power to overturn Supreme Court rulings rejecting bills it passes. Thus, the majority of the parliament will be able to achieve the adoption of such bills, which have been declared unconstitutional by the court. It is also planned to reform the judges’ selection commission, involving two representatives chosen by the Minister of Justice, not the state lawyers’ association.

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