Sheetrit: PM needn't be a general

Internal Affairs Minister Meir Sheetrit launched his campaign for chairmanship of the Kadima party on Tuesday evening, stressed the importance of political experience, stating that "the fate of the party and the state can't be gambled away by letting people without experience jump right into senior positions."

"The prime minister does not need to be a general," Sheetrit told supporters at a rally in Holon, adding that he believed it would be misguide to elect anyone who comes straight from military service or the private sector, and whose popularity has only been derived from media exposure.

"With me the phone wouldn't ring at 3:00 a.m., there's no reason for it to. Things are urgent, they are neglected. If there is a sensitive situation, I'll be up, because these things need attention around the clock."

More than 200 activists and municipal leaders took part in the rally. Sheetrit sounded optimistic, touting his extensive public service record and peppering his speech with mentions of his various governmental positions, especially those related to defense.

"Running the government is a serious matter, the person filling that role needs to do it with all his heart; and though the chief concerns should be domestic, foreign and defense matters – though important, defense isn't everything."