What's Happening?
Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara has condemned a proposed amendment to the government's rules of procedure, arguing that it would allow the cabinet to make decisions in violation of the law. The proposal,
which lacks a professional foundation, would enable the government to operate without legal advice, potentially leading to discriminatory budget allocations and misuse of governmental power, especially during an election period. Deputy Attorney-General Gil Limon's legal opinion supports Baharav-Miara's stance, highlighting that the amendments would undermine government efficiency and open the door to unlawful actions. The proposal is seen as an attempt to weaken the attorney-general's role, contradicting a High Court ruling that invalidated a previous attempt to dismiss Baharav-Miara.
Why It's Important?
The proposed changes have significant implications for the rule of law and governance in Israel. By potentially allowing the government to bypass legal advice, the amendments could lead to unchecked governmental power and misuse of state resources. This raises concerns about the erosion of institutional checks and balances, which are crucial for maintaining democratic governance. The timing of the proposal, just months before an election, further exacerbates these concerns, as it could lead to decisions that serve political interests rather than the public good. The Movement for Quality Government in Israel has expressed support for the Attorney-General's position, emphasizing the importance of legal oversight in government actions.
What's Next?
If the proposal is advanced, it could face legal challenges, particularly given its contradiction with the High Court's previous ruling on the attorney-general's dismissal. The government may need to reconsider or revise the proposal to address the legal and constitutional concerns raised by the Attorney-General's Office. Additionally, public and political pressure could influence the government's decision-making process, especially as the election period approaches. The outcome of this situation could set a precedent for how legal advisory roles are treated in future governmental procedures.
