Zaken to give her version in Holyland case

Shula Zaken, previously head of former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert's office, was abroad this Independence Day but contacts between her lawyer, Attorney Micha Fetman, and the police prosecutor continued. On Wednesday Fetman will speak to the press and address the issue of Zaken's apparent involvement in the Holyland affair, and the possibility that she will testify against Olmert and perhaps even serve as a state witness.

Last Sunday, Fetman returned to Israel after a visit to the US with Zaken. Fetman presented Zaken with an offer from senior law enforcement figures about her agreement to testify against Olmert in the Holyland case, and perhaps to serve as state witness in other cases.

One such figure said to Ynet, "There is no doubt that if Zaken agrees to testify against Olmert and even to serve as state witness, this could tie up a lot of loose ends in the Holyland affair and other cases. However, it must be remembered that Zaken was, and remains, Olmert's confidant, and to persuade her to do such a thing will not be easy."

Holyland project in Jerusalem (Photo: Reuters)

In the coming days Olmert himself is slated to be questioned in the Holyland affair. Police are expected to confront Olmert with the testimony given by the state witness, according to which Olmert received a bribe. Olmert will also be confronted with additional documents the police hold. During his interrogation police will consider whether Olmert should be brought before a judge and remanded. At present, it seems Olmert will be released to house arrest.

Police are also expected to agree to release Hillel Charney, Avigdor Kelner and Uri Shitrit on house arrest under restricted conditions, with stay-of-exit orders issued against them.

The law enforcement system continues to prepare for additional arrests and investigations, which have been put on hold due to Memorial Day and Independence Day. During the week more suspects are slated to be arrested.