During a special debate held today (Wednesday) in the Knesset, the proposal by MK Avichai Boaron from Likud to hold an additional in-depth debate on the conduct of the Attorney General’s office was approved by a majority vote. 51 Knesset members supported the decision, with no opposition, after the opposition chose to boycott the vote.
Boaron: “The government needs a non-confrontational legal advisor”
MK Avichai Boaron, who initiated the debate, emphasized the importance of the move in his speech: “Today, the Knesset has given a tailwind to the government to begin the process of removing the Attorney General from her position. The government needs a legal advisor who enables it to serve the public efficiently and without delays.” According to him, the measure aims to “allow the government to implement its policies across various issues.”
Justice Minister MK Yariv Levin supported Boaron’s stance and joined the criticism of the Attorney General: “This is not about professional advice but entirely political behavior. I hope the government will convene to present a clear position on this matter, as required by the current situation.”
Background to the Decision
The current proposal passed by a significant majority after a similar proposal failed last week due to a parliamentary move by the opposition. The debate was held under the title “The Conduct of the Attorney General’s Office and the Harm to the Public,” during which supporters of the proposal emphasized the urgent need for change.
Boaron reiterated that the proposal was not motivated by personal considerations but by a commitment to improving government performance: “In situations of substantial and prolonged disagreements between the government and the legal advisor, as outlined by the Shamgar Committee, the government is entitled to act to replace them. We call on the government to appoint a new legal advisor who can accompany it professionally and effectively.”
Opposition Response
The opposition refrained from participating in the vote, protesting against the debate and decision. They claim it is an attempt to weaken the judiciary and undermine the independence of the Attorney General.
The Knesset’s decision is expected to spark widespread public debate as the government will be required to decide whether to heed the call and take steps to advance the dismissal of the Attorney General.
