Title: “Political Appointments Expose Weaknesses in Israel’s Public Service Amidst Ongoing War”
Subtitle: “Ministers Pursue Controversial Appointments While Country Faces Dire Crisis”
Date: [Insert Date]
In the midst of a war-torn Israel, concerns arise over the continued practice of problematic appointments within the public service. Years of political influence have led to the deterioration of several crucial institutions. This troubling trend persists, even as the nation fights to maintain stability.
Ministry of National Security:
Elazar Ben Harash, the former director general of the Ministry of the Negev and the Galilee, has been appointed as the new director general of the Ministry of National Security. This decision has drawn strong opposition from the Civil Service Commissioner, who argues that an individual with field experience in security matters should have been chosen instead. Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben Gabir, defends the appointment, claiming that Ben Harash’s negotiation skills were the determining factor. However, it is worth noting that Ben Harash lacks relevant experience for the position.
Israel Post:
Amidst the ongoing conflict, Minister of Justice, Dodi Amsalem, and Communications Minister, Shlomo Karai, are actively seeking to remove the chairman of Israel Post. Amsalem aims to consolidate his control over the board of directors to facilitate this dismissal. The State Companies Authority has raised concerns about three appointments endorsed by Amsalem, citing clear political ties for two of them, while the third appointment remains under review.
Israel Railways:
The CEO of Israel Railways, Micha Meixner, was set to conclude his tenure the day after the outbreak of the war. Michal Rosenbaum, CEO of the Companies Authority, recommended extending Meixner’s appointment until the end of the conflict to avoid any disruptions. However, the chairman of the board, Moshe Shimoni, appointed by Transportation Minister Miri Regev, rejected the extension request and granted a mere three-day extension. In the midst of the ongoing war, Israel Railways is set to change leadership.
Roles for War Care:
Limited options for appointments acceptable to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have underscored the challenges in assembling a capable team. For instance, Moshe Edri has been appointed to lead the rehabilitation department while simultaneously serving as the head of the Atomic Energy Committee. Although Edri is known for his competence and dedication, concerns are raised about his ability to handle both roles simultaneously.
Further Controversial Appointments:
The appointment of Gal Hirsch for the treatment of prisoners and missing persons faced difficulties due to a pending indictment for tax offenses. This leaves authorities searching for an alternative solution, possibly looking to bring in another professional.
Meir Spiegler, CEO of the Electric Company, was slated to take on the position of coordinator and integrator of government ministries. However, due to a lack of a chairman and the absence of four directors at the Electric Company, his release from the current role is currently unfeasible.
The prevalence of these controversial appointments highlights the urgent need to address the political influences compromising the efficiency and effectiveness of Israel’s public service. As the nation grapples with the horrors of war, it is imperative that appointments are based on merit and relevant experience to ensure the country’s success in overcoming this crisis.
[Visuals]
– Images of Elazar Ben Harash and Itamar Ben Gabir (Ministry of National Security)
– Images of Minister Dodi Amsalem and Minister Shlomo Karai (Israel Post)
– Images of Moshe Shimoni and Miri Regev (Israel Railways)
– Image of a government meeting (Problematic appointments under fire)
– Image of an archive (Government meeting)
– Image of Meir Spiegler (Electric Company)