Haim Ramon
צילום: ניב קלדרון
Indicted former minister may return to politics
Court ruling that former minister's conviction on indecent conduct charges does not amount to moral turpitude paves way for Ramon to return to political life
A court ruling stating that former Justice Minister Haim Ramon's indecent conduct conviction did not amount to a crime of moral turpitude, has paved his way back to political life.
The court upheld Ramon's conviction Thursday on indecent conduct charges and sentenced him to 120 hours of community service.
Ramon himself refused to comment on the court's ruling, but his associates said he would decide on his political future shortly after Pesach.
Meanwhile, others in the political system were quick to voice hope he would soon return to the Knesset.
"I hope and believe that he (Ramon) returns to political activity as soon as possible, because the political system as a whole, and Kadima is particular, need such a man," said Knesset Member Yoel Hasson.
Prof. Daniel Friedmann, who replaced Ramon as justice minister, said that he was "glad it became possible for Ramon to return to political life, if he wishes to do so. I'm convinced that he can contribute."
However, some MKs were critical of the court's decision. MK Zevulun Orlev (National Union-National religious Party) claimed that in his opinion, Ramon would not be able to return to the cabinet.
"Appointing someone who has been convicted of sexual misconduct minister would be tantamount to public indecent conduct," Orlev said. "If Olmert appoints Ramon minister, this would be a mark of disgrace and further testimony of the government's corruption."
Orlev's fellow-party member, MK Zvi Hendel, slammed the judicial system for allegedly caving in to public pressure in the case. "Ramon's disgrace is obvious even without the court's seal of approval. If Ramon returns to the political system, this would serve as the true mark of disgrace of the judicial system, which gave in to the blatant and hypocritical campaign waged by the Left for its favorite son."
Aviram Zino contributed to the report
