Yachimovich: Labor is only threat to Netanyahu

Labor convention approves protocol for primaries; party leader confirms she is running for prime minister

Zvika Brot|Published: 10.30.12 , 22:16

The Labor Party convention on Tuesday approved the protocol for the primaries, as well as a contentious proposal brought forth by Chairwoman Shelly Yachimovich.

Yachimovich's proposal to alter the positions of minority representatives on Labor's Knesset list was okayed by the majority of the party's members but drew some criticism as well.

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Under the new system, the Arab and Druze sectors would get just one guaranteed spot on the Knesset list instead of two, while more women would get guaranteed spots on the list than before.

MK Raleb Majadele blasted Yachimovich for "changing the rules of the game while it is being played," and lamented that the party no longer allows true representation of the country's sectors.

Yachimovich argued that the list's new order is the most democratic option.

"I understand that some of you are angry, but I ask for your support," she told the convention. "(…) If there was ever any doubt, I am now saying it loud and clear: I am running for prime minister. We can replace the government."

She further asserted that Labor is the only party that poses a threat to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rulership.

"Our poll results are excellent," she said. "The public believes in our path because we are sharp and don't flip flop. We don't live on political spin and slogans. We promise solidarity."

Moran Azulay contributed to the report. Azulay and Zvika Brot are Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth correspondents