Speaker of the Knesset's Resignation - Statement

Yohanan Plesner, President of the Israel Democracy Institute, reacted to the Speaker of the Knesset Yuli Edelstein's resignation

MK Yuli Edelstein | Flash 90

"The Speaker's actions over the past few days and his refusal to act in accordance with the Supreme Court's ruling are bringing us dangerously close to anarchy. While the Court's decision was called for, it is of course legitimate to disagree with the ruling. It is illegitimate, however, to raise the prospect of not complying with an explicit court order. This is especially true when the event in question involves the head of the legislative branch who himself is one of the most important symbols of democratic government in Israel. 

The irresponsible rhetoric and fierce attacks voiced by senior ministers against the judiciary in recent days reflect a new low point in our democracy and could send a dangerous signal to the public that court rulings are not binding or mandatory."

Plesner also added: "Unless MK Edelstein decides that his resignation will take effect immediately, it is still his duty to comply with the Court order and include the election for the new Speaker of the Knesset in today's (Wednesday) plenary agenda. It would be deeply unfortunate if after serving in his position for seven years, Edelstein's final act as Speaker of the Knesset would be one of contempt of court."

The irresponsible rhetoric and fierce attacks voiced by senior ministers against the judiciary in recent days reflect a new low point in our democracy and could send a dangerous signal to the public that court rulings are not binding or mandatory.