The Shas party announced Sunday night that it will support the so-called “Ben Gvir Law,” a renewed version of legislation previously known as “Deri Law 2,” aimed at preventing the High Court of Justice from intervening in the appointment or dismissal of government ministers. At the same time, the party made clear that its chairman, Aryeh Deri, does not intend to return to the cabinet, though a caveat remains.

In a statement issued by the office of Shas chairman Aryeh Deri, the party confirmed its backing for the bill. The statement emphasized that the sole authority to appoint and remove ministers rests with the prime minister, “and that is how it should be in a democratic state.” It added that Aryeh Deri does not require such legislation and has no interest in serving as a minister in the current government.

The announcement came amid reports in several media outlets Sunday evening that the coalition has decided to resume advancing the legislation, which would allow ministers who are under indictment or have been convicted to serve at the government table. According to a report by Dafna Liel, the special committee handling the bill is expected to convene this week for a technical discussion, with a final vote in its second and third readings — already prepared — anticipated in the week following Purim.

Under the plan, the coalition will reestablish the committee that previously debated the proposal, which is designed to bar the High Court from reviewing ministerial appointments and dismissals. If enacted, the law would permit ministers to continue serving even while facing a pending indictment. The legislative process had previously been halted after committee deliberations ahead of its second and third readings. A renewed discussion is now required following guidance from legal advisers before the bill can be brought back for a vote.

The legislation passed its first reading in the Knesset in March 2023 by a vote of 63 in favor and 55 opposed. According to the bill’s language, the court would be barred from exercising judicial review over ministerial appointments and their identities, on the grounds that such decisions constitute the “core of democratic activity” and that disqualifying an appointment undermines the will of the voter.

The renewed push comes as a petition is currently pending seeking the dismissal of National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. The bill, initially promoted at the beginning of the government’s term and later stalled at Deri’s request, was originally intended to facilitate his return to the cabinet table. It is now being reconsidered in connection with Minister Ben Gvir. Should the coalition decide to proceed, the measure could receive final approval within days.

Meanwhile, Shas is expected to regain the chairmanship of the Knesset Health Committee as part of a coordinated role swap with the Otzma Yehudit party, set to take effect as early as Monday. Party officials have indicated that Shas intends to lead deliberations on the Arrangements Law directly.

{Matzav.com}