In a comprehensive interview with the chair of the Constitution Committee, MK Simcha Rothman, published in 'Maariv', the lawmaker summarized his parliamentary work during the last term, focusing extensively on advancing the judicial reform. In the discussion, Rothman addressed the structural changes implemented in the judicial system, claiming that an absolute majority of the components of the plan presented by Justice Minister Yariv Levin at the start have been realized.
According to Rothman, the law cancelling the reasonableness standard has stood the test, and he noted that profound changes have occurred in the composition of the Judicial Selection Committee and the powers of the government's legal advisors. The MK emphasized that these changes reduce the power of the legal counsel, which previously served as a barrier to advancing government legislation. Alongside the details on the reform's achievements, MK Rothman voiced sharp criticism of the Supreme Court and Deputy Attorney General Gil Limon.
Rothman claimed that the judicial system has lost its legitimacy, among other things, due to its perception that it is not bound by the provisions of the law. He referred to the confrontations that occurred in the Constitution Committee with legal officials and described his actions to ensure the presence of the Attorney General's representatives in discussions as part of exercising the parliamentary tools available to the Knesset. In addition, Rothman clarified that he sees no direct link between the manpower shortage in the IDF and the issue of Haredi conscription.
In the interview, the MK also touched on the political future, expressing his position on the nature of the future government, which he said should be based on the national camp and the core values of the people of Israel, the land of Israel, and the Torah of Israel. Rothman's remarks reflect a worldview that seeks to weaken the legal-professional echelon in favor of strengthening parliamentary power. These positions spark deep public controversy but reflect the policy that Rothman advocated throughout his term.
The interview presents Rothman's view that the Knesset's actions are decisive in Israeli democracy, while judicial review is perceived as a factor that undermines the status of the legislature. As of now, his claims regarding the legality of the moves and the legitimacy of state institutions remain at the center of the political and legal debate in Israel ahead of the upcoming elections.