Likud Court Overturns Primary Reform Promoting Incumbents

The Likud Court overturned a party convention decision that would have permitted current and former lawmakers, ministers, and deputy ministers to run in regional slots during primaries. The reform, championed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister Haim Katz, had previously passed by a narrow five-vote margin. A five-member panel led by Attorney Michael Kleiner ruled 4–1 that the move violated the principle of equality for new candidates, asserting that regional slots must remain a "nature reserve" for developing new leadership.

The tribunal's ruling cited significant procedural flaws and voting irregularities in Rishon Lezion, Jerusalem, Ramle, and Acre, making it impossible to verify the narrow victory. Investigations indicated that Benjamin Netanyahu's name appeared on the official voter list despite him not casting a ballot, while petitioners, including Knesset member David Bitan, alleged fraud and the improper invalidation of opposing ballots.

Despite the reversal of the district-seat measure, the court maintained the eight reserved slots that Benjamin Netanyahu is authorized to appoint directly to the party's electoral list. The ruling effectively prevents experienced lawmakers from using regional races as an alternative to the national list, preserving those positions for political newcomers.