Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s indictment on corruption charges does not disqualify him from forming a government, Israel’s top court revealed on Wednesday, making way for the veteran leader to remain in power.
In its ruling against opposition petitioners, the Supreme Court also found that Mr Netanyahu’s unity government deal with his election opponent Mr Benny Gantz does not violate the law, dismissing arguments that it unlawfully shields him in a corruption trial.
The ruling removes a legal hurdle to the coalition government the right-wing Netanyahu and centrist Gantz plan to swear in next week, following three inconclusive elections in the past year.
It also moves the country closer to ending its political deadlock as it grapples with the coronavirus crisis and its economic fallout.
In unanimous rulings, the panel of 11 justices found no legal basis to prevent Knesset member Netanyahu from forming the government. But also stated that its decision should not be construed as diminishing the gravity of the charges against public probity, nor the difficulty posed by the tenure of a prime minister accused of crimes.
Mr Netanyahu also has the right to presumption of innocence, the court added.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was indicted in January on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He denies any wrongdoing in all three cases.
The pandemic outrage pushed Mr Gantz to backtrack on a campaign pledge not to serve in a government led by a premier facing criminal charges, and instead sign an emergency unity deal with his rival.
Under the terms of the deal, Mr Netanyahu would serve as prime minister of a new administration for 18 months before handing the reins to Mr Gantz.
