Thousands of Belzer Chassidim on motzei Shabbos attended a rally in support of Rabbi Meir Porush, who is a contender in the Jerusalem mayoral election. MK Rav Yisrael Eichler, a journalist and prominent Kol Chai Radio host stated Belze is coming out in support of Porush to make sure the next mayor of Yerushalayim is also chareidi.

Eichler reminded the chassidim that he remembers the era of [former Jerusalem Mayor] Teddy Kollek, and how difficult it was for the frum community, adding the pervious Rebbe ZT”L came out in support of Agudas Yisrael without seeking any official position. Eichler stated he is well-aware of the polls, but remains positive that Porush will be the next mayor.

The Rebbe’s gabbai, Rav Shimon Ze’ev Klein addressed the rally as well, stating “whoever does not vote for Porush results in a chilul Hashem,” stating to vote for the frum candidate is an act “L’Shem Shamayim”.

Hinting to the ongoing dispute between Porush and Gerrer Chassidus, Rav Klein stated Belze is working to improve the situation and vowed not to rest until the parties involved can work with one another.

Rav Menachem Porush, the candidate’s father, also addressed the event, telling chassidim of the meeting he had with the previous Rebbe, at the time he was seeking the Rebbe’s endorsement for the rally against drafting females into the IDF.

“We met for 17 minutes and the Rebbe ZT”L stated every soul that comes down into the world has a purpose and we must bring it closer, not drive someone further away. I see the Rebbe Shlita, how he continues the work of the previous Rebbe via his institutions. This is the biggest revenge against Hitler yimach s’hmo v’zichro, who tried to eliminate the yidden, resulting in the extermination of many Belzer Chassidim,” stated Rav Porush senior.

The elder Yerushalmi askan added he remembers just how difficult it was during the British Mandate for all Jews, especially for the chareidi community, explaining if a chareidi mayor is not elected, “we will stand at the doorway like beggars asking for that which we are entitled to, not as a privilege, but our inherent right.”

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)