The High Court of Israel convened this morning to deliberate on a significant petition filed by the Movement for the Quality of Government. The petition demands that Justice Minister Yariv Levin appoint a permanent president of the Supreme Court and convene the committee responsible for selecting judges. The current situation, where the Supreme Court operates without a permanent president, is unprecedented and undermines the judiciary's functioning and the principle of separation of powers.
President Yitzhak Herzog has been mediating between Justice Minister Yariv Levin and Acting President of the Supreme Court, Judge Uzi Fogelman, to reach an agreement on appointing a president and judges to the Supreme Court. A proposal suggested appointing Attorney Michael Rabilo, a close advisor to Netanyahu, as a Supreme Judge and Judge Yitzhak Amit as Supreme President. However, Levin refused the proposal.
During the court discussion, Judge Ofer Grosskopf raised the point that the law mandates the Justice Minister to appoint judges when necessary. Attorney Zion Amir, representing Minister Levin, argued that the minister has discretion in this matter, citing the current social and political climate in Israel as a factor influencing the decision.
Attorney Amir emphasized that the committee for selecting judges has met several times, although not to vote on appointing a president. He argued that the minister has not avoided convening the committee but is exercising his judgment in a complex situation. Judge Yael Wilner responded, highlighting the need for all committee members to be fully qualified, especially during times of national crisis.
The debate underscores the tension between judicial independence and political influence in Israel's legal system. The High Court's decision on this matter will have significant implications for the judiciary's future and the broader political landscape in Israel.
