Prime Minister Netanyahu examined the possibility that the director general of his office, Yossi Shelly, would be appointed the chief statistician, that is, the chairman of the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). Shelly is a long-time Likud activist who helped Netanyahu in the primary elections back in 2005, and ran for mayor of Beer Sheva in 2008 on behalf of the Likud.
In 2012, Shelley signed a plea agreement according to which he will be prevented from engaging in the civil service for 3 years, after he was accused of allegedly stating that he had no political affiliation to any party, even though he was active in Likud.
After the ban expired, Shelley was appointed Israel’s ambassador to Brazil, and more recently director general of the Prime Minister’s Office. Now, Netanyahu has examined the possibility that Shelley will be appointed head of the Central Bureau of Statistics temporarily. However, shortly after the publication of this in Han 11 – Netanyahu withdrew from the appointment.
Director General of the Prime Minister’s Office, Yossi Sheli / Photo: Senado Federal do Brasil
The CBS is a critical body for the proper economic management of the country, because it provides the bulk of the data on the basis of which decisions are made by government ministries, including the Treasury, the Bank of Israel, and even many business companies. In the meantime, the credibility of the CBS is particularly important to disseminate information effectively .
An obstacle that Yossi Shelley would face is that he does not necessarily meet the conditions of the current tender for the chief statistician. Among other things, a third degree (doctorate) is required, and at least 7 years of experience “in leading and conducting scientific research in the fields of statistics, economics or demography, including the publication of scientific articles in leading international professional journals and/or proven experience in data science, including experience in the use and analysis of Huge data and advanced statistical calculation methods”.
The Civil Service Commission stated: “There was an examination of the possibility of appointing him as a temporary deputy, for three months, until the work of the search committee is finished. This, in addition to his position as CEO of the Prime Minister’s Office. In light of the fact that the search committee for the position is going to meet in the coming days, it was ultimately decided to wait until the work of the search committee is finished.’