Shas leader Deputy Prime Minister Eli Yishai dispelled rumors that he may be interested in opposing Labor Party leader Shelly Yacimovich for the role of opposition leader. Generally speaking, the largest party outside of the coalition becomes the coalition leader but if the opposition MKs select another, then the position may go to a small non-coalition party.

Yishai announced on Wednesday 24 Adar 5773 that Shas has no desire to compete against Yacimovich for the position. He added that Shas would vote for Yacimovich for the post, adding that being opposition leader would complicate raising some issues pertinent to the chareidi tzibur and therefore, Shas will support the Labor Party leader.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)