Israel's Parliament Passes Controversial Judicial Overhaul Bill
Israeli-Parliament: Israel's parliament passed a significant bill on Thursday granting politicians greater authority in the selection of judges. The bill alters the composition of the judicial selection committee, replacing representatives previously chosen by the Israeli Bar Association with appointees from both the government and the opposition. This move aims to increase political control over Israel's judiciary and has sparked widespread protests.
Changes to the Judicial Selection Committee
Under the new bill, the committee responsible for selecting judges will no longer be solely comprised of members from the Israeli Bar Association. Instead, the government and the opposition will now appoint members. Previously, the committee was entirely controlled by the judiciary and other legal institutions. The government frames this change as a necessary step to curtail what it perceives as excessive Supreme Court intervention.
Opposition Condemnation
Opposition parties have vehemently denounced the bill, characterizing it as a major assault on Israeli democracy. They argue that the changes undermine judicial independence and pave the way for increased political interference in judicial processes. Several opposition parties boycotted the parliamentary vote in protest.
Government's Justification
Justice Minister Yariv Levin, defending the bill, stated that it will take effect from the next parliamentary term and aims to ensure greater balance and representation in the committee's composition. He asserted that the changes will lead to the selection of more qualified and competent judges, preventing the exclusion of any judge based on personal views.
Increased Protests Following Bill's Passage
The bill's passage has intensified protests across Israel. During a demonstration in Tel Aviv, Roni Malmuk stated, "This day will be significant in history, as the government has passed legislation that could weaken a crucial pillar of democracy." Malmuk expressed deep concern, highlighting the bill's transformation into a major political issue.
Attempt to Control the Supreme Court
The government maintains that this bill, along with other measures, is necessary to curb what it views as excessive Supreme Court intervention and to allow the Knesset (parliament) to function independently. The government believes these changes will enhance the judiciary's autonomy and independence. Critics, however, see it as an attack on judicial authority and a power grab by the government.
