Dichter joins Kadima, lauds Sharon
Avi Dichter expresses confidence in Sharon's leadership abilities; former security chief touted as potential defense minister
"I promised the press that by the end of 2005 I would take a decision on whether to go to business or into politics. In other words: Whether to work on behalf of myself or or my country. I decided to work on behalf of my country," Dichter said during his press conference.
"In the last three months, after completing my term as Shin Bet head, I held a series of meetings with the political top brass in Israel. In fact, I met almost everyone, from almost every political party in Israel. I had a rare opportunity, certainly an experience, one can say, to hear first hand, from those who labor in the State of Israel in the political sphere. They spoke with much openness and wisdom, with plenty of experience, and I am grateful for all those conversations, which very much contributed in helping me take my decision," Dichter said.
"I think the Israeli public votes for those who are able to make changes... and I believe in my ability to make changes on the national level," Dichter declared.
"I recognized the Kadima party as the leader in real change in Israeli politics. The leader of the Kadima party embodies in my opinion, and not only in my opinion, through his leadership, determination, and bravery, the necessary abilities to pull us out of the mess. All my life, I've been taught to enlist myself for the country during difficult times, and after I put these things together, I decided to join the Kadima list. With Kadima, we can strengthen the faith of the Israeli public, and shape a better future for the State of Israel and the Israeli people," he added.
Dichter ended the press conference by saying that "I came to give and not to take."
On Tuesday, the former Shin Bet chief met with Sharon at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem. This was their first meeting since Dichter returned from thethe United States.
Dichter, who is seen as a rising star in Kadima, is likely to capture a high spot on the party list and has been mentioned as a candidate for the post of defense minister or internal security minister.
Ronny Sofer contributed to this report
