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The chareidim are not the only ones holding election rallies in Beit Shemesh as the city’s mayoral election is scheduled for Tuesday, 9 Adar II 5774. An election kenos was held to boost the candidacy of Eli Cohen, who is endorsed by Likud, Bayit Yehudi and Yesh Atid. The former Jewish Agency for Israel officials hopes to unseat Mayor Moshe Abutbul in the election. Cohen explains he is a traditional Jew, one who respects everyone and promises his election will not negatively impact the city’s chareidi tzibur.

Among the keynote speakers at the kenos was MK (Yesh Atid) Rabbi Dov Lipman, who was received warmly. Lipman reminded participants that after police established there was voter fraud in the first election, the courts compelled the upcoming re-election.

“I have news. On Tuesday we begin a new era in Beit Shemesh, of dual-existence and mutual respect… Beit Shemesh needs a mayor with vision and the ability to run the city…We will turn Beit Shemesh into the diamond of the nation… On Tuesday we will all vote for Eli Cohen” he exclaims.

“The entire State of Israel is watching us and we have one opportunity to save our city by voting for Eli Cohen…”

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)