Critics argue the legislation being rapidly advanced by the coaltion would hinder the A-G’s power to influence and act independently. Rothman is one of the bill’s sponsors, along with the chairperson of the Constitution, Law and Justice Committee, where the legislation is being debated.
The removal incident took place during a debate on the bill, in which five of the attorney general’s deputies made a rare joint appearance to present their opposition.
As one of the attorney general’s deputies attempted to speak but was repeatedly interrupted by Rothman, Limon also tried to address the committee, prompting Rothman to order him removed.
“Gil, please leave,” Rothman repeatedly told him before Limon exited the room.
MK Gilad Kariv (The Democrats) condemned the move, calling Rothman’s removal of Limon “a disgrace.”
While still in the committee meeting, Limon told the panel that the legislation “fundamentally changes the role of the attorney-general,” adding that it would be “effectively eliminating the position.”
Marathon meetings of the Knesset Constitution, Law and Justice Committee have been taking place this week to advance the legislation ahead of its second and third readings.
The bill passed its first reading in the Knesset plenum earlier this month and still requires two additional readings before becoming law.
Legal scholars have warned that the bill proposal would place unprecedented power in the government’s hands over its principal legal challenge.
Opponents argue that the attorney-general’s independent status is essential to preserving the rule of law.
The tensions also come amid the coalition’s last Knesset session to advance its legislation before the upcoming elections, scheduled for no later than October 27.
Source:
www.jpost.com
