According to a BeChadrei Chareidim report released on Tuesday, 17 Elul, Degel Hatorah chairman, MK Moshe Gafne announced this is his last term, leading to a stir in the party. The question remains is if Gafne really intends to leave political life or was this a statement resulting from the frustrations of the upcoming municipal elections accompanied by more than a small measure of in-party disharmony.

Gafne made his comments during an interview with Betzalel Kahan on Kol Chai Radio, confirming he made such a statement, pointing the finger of blame as what is taking place in the party of late. “I have been in Knesset for many years and for one thing, it is time to think if it might be time to call it quits” he is quoted saying. He admitted saying, “There are things that are beginning to wear me down, both in the party and the political arena, and therefore, it may be time for me to call it quits”. He also stated, “I am at the end of my political career”.

The chairman of the Knesset Finance Committee and the Degel Hatorah party further explained, sending mixed messages, “I did not say that I am leaving and that I won’t run. Certainly, I will ask Gedolei HaTorah, but I said that I am looking at the political system and I see it has changed from what it was in the past”.

Gafne then comforted his supporters, assuring those who phoned him and inquired that he is not quitting, but stated the elections are coming, and following the elections, he will then contemplate his future.

Gafne, who is 65, has been in Knesset since 1992, the 12th Knesset.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)