Making history - Abu-Razek
Photo: Zoom 77
Minister picks Arab for top post
Interior Minister Ophir Pines-Paz nominates Arab-Israeli for post of ministry director-general; if appointed, Oscar Abu-Razek will become first Arab to head government ministry
JERUSALEM - Interior Minister Ophir Pines-Paz made a surprising announcement Monday, nominating an Arab-Israeli to the post of Interior Ministry director general.
Should Jaffa resident Oscar Abu-Razek’s nomination be approved, he would become the first Arab ever to head a government ministry. Currently, he serves as the Tax Authority’s deputy director.
In addition to his official duties, Abu-Razek also serves as a tax law lecturer at a local college and as a director, on behalf of the government, in several public companies.
Arab Knesset member lauds decision
The nominee is also among the founders of the “Open Heart” non-profit organization, which acts to bring Jews and Arabs together.
Abu-Razek’s nomination is still subject to the approval of the public service appointment committee, which is expected to look into the nomination in the coming days.
Notably, Minister Pines-Paz has announced previously that he intends to advance minority groups to high-ranking posts.
Knesset Member Jamal Zahalka praised the minister’s decision, but said the fact it came as a surprise attests to the poor representation of Arabs in senior government posts.
