Arab leader wishes Katsav will remain 'pure as snow'

Head of Islamic Movement's southern faction guest at Iftar feast hosted by President Katsav, expresses support: 'I hope to see Mr. Katsav pure as snow again'
Aviram Zino

President Moshe Katsav received a voice of support on Wednesday, this time from Islamic Movement southern faction leader Sheik Abdullah Nimr Darwish. The latter was a guest at the Iftar feast (break of the Ramadan fast) held at the Presidential Residence and also said that "it is the duty of every Jewish, Arab and Christian citizen to support President Katsav."

Katsav and Muslim leaders at feast (Photo: Gil Yohanan)

The feast was attended by Muslim leaders in Israel who also expressed their full support of Katsav. Sheik Darwish, who said he wished Katsav to emerge from the affair "pure are snow", spoke with Ynet after the event. "Personally I was surprised that the media has already hung him the town square," said Sheik Darwish, "I cannot accept that such a distinguished media in a democratic nation would hand the president in the town square before an indictment is even filed and a court has made its ruling. We are a country governed by laws, so let us let the law do it job. Secondly, President Katsav is a very warm man, gracious, close to every Jew and Arab, and we are astounded to hear what the media tsunami has stirred up."

During the even Sheik Darwish addressed Katsav: "Mr. President, we are in a democratic country today. The media – you are not a courthouse and you should report without making accusations. I have a request of you Mr. President: after seeing your smile today, I wish for you to widen it."

Darwish's words drew thunderous applause and the Sheik ended his speech by saying "I hope we will see Mr. Katsav pure as snow again, serving this region and the peace in many places."