JERUSALEM (VINnews) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is weighing significant changes to the candidate selection process in the ruling Likud as the country moves closer to national elections, according to a report by Israeli journalist Moran Azulay.

Discussions within Netanyahu’s circle have included the possibility of replacing party primaries with a selection committee. However, party officials cited in the report said the primary objective is to overhaul and refresh the party’s electoral slate rather than eliminate the democratic process altogether.

According to the report, Netanyahu wants a list composed not only of candidates capable of winning internal party primaries but also of figures who can attract broader public support and appeal to younger voters.

The effort could include expanding the number of reserved positions on the party list for younger candidates and other public figures. Among the names reportedly being considered are Almog Cohen, who has gained popularity among younger voters, and activist Hadar Muchtar, should she become eligible.

The prospect of granting Netanyahu between eight and 10 reserved slots in realistic positions on the party list has reportedly sparked resistance among incumbent lawmakers, who fear it could jeopardize their chances of returning to the Knesset.

A Likud lawmaker quoted anonymously in the report said discussion of a selection committee may be intended to make the expanded use of reserved slots more acceptable to party members.

“Primaries are an inseparable part of the democratic process in Likud and what distinguishes the party from others where such a process does not exist,” the lawmaker said. “Canceling the primaries is a move that cannot happen.”

The issue is expected to be addressed in the coming weeks as party leaders, including Haim Katz, await a final decision from Netanyahu regarding the structure of the party’s candidate-selection process.