The Shabbos announcement by Binyamin Ben-Eliezer that he is stepping out of the presidential race led to a flurry of rumors that the election might be delayed. Presidential Election Day is set for this Tuesday, 12 Sivan 5774.

After consulting with politicians and state legal experts, Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein announced on Sunday afternoon 10 Sivan that elections would take place on schedule.

The speaker stated “Unfortunately, one cannot deny that the current atmosphere in the elections for the presidency will be devoid of any element of solemnity and dignity – as they should be. However, with serious fears regarding the future, I have decided to keep the original election date in place “.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)