Knesset passes 'symbolic' proposal to remove A-G, opposition storms out

The Knesset approved a symbolic "agenda proposal" motion against Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara on Wednesday.

The opposition boycotted the vote, and members stormed out of the plenum after the proposal was passed.

The proposal titled “The essential and ongoing differences of opinion between the government and attorney general that prevent efficient cooperation" was presented in the plenum on Wednesday by Likud MK Amichai Boaron.

It is identical to one that Boaron brought last week, which the opposition struck down after conducting a parliamentary maneuver where its MKs all entered the plenum just before the vote, taking the coalition by surprise.

Government seeks to fire AG, central gatekeeper

This proposal marks the government's move to fire the attorney general, a central gatekeeper who has repeatedly prevented the government from acting illegally. Ministers and coalition members have accused the attorney-general of intentionally opposing many of their proposals to eventually bring down the government. No minister or coalition member has provided proof of this claim.

Some 13 ministers had already signed a letter in support of initiating the process to remove Baharav-Miara. The move would need 17 signatures, a majority of the government, to proceed.

Boaron, who brought forth the motion, said, "The proposal addresses a highly sensitive issue at the heart of Israeli society. It touches on the governance of the executive branch and its ability to implement its policies." 

"This proposal also delves into the ultimate question of whether the people are in control of the state, whether the Knesset of Israel is led by the people's elected representatives, and whether it still serves as a principled compass for the Israeli government" Boaron concluded. 

Justice Minister Yariv Levin of the Likud also supported the motion, stating, "When one side of this house defends and cries out in such a manner, it indicates that this is no longer about professional advice but about political agitation."

"This is not a way to work, and this cannot continue. I appreciate and hope that the government will be able to unite around appropriate decisions to improve the intolerable situation in this matter."

The passing of the motion has no practical significance for Baharav-Miara and is a purely symbolic declaration.