Will votes for the right be wasted? Another ultra-Orthodox party will run in the elections

A new ultra-Orthodox party named "HaKahal" was launched yesterday (Wednesday) in Jerusalem. According to the new chairman, Shlomo Alboim, in an interview with the "Yoman Tsohoraim" program on Channel 14, the party already has over 70,000 supporters. Alboim addressed questions from panel members regarding the party's unconventional approach to conscription, the integration of women, the issue of "wasted" votes, and participatory democracy. "You have no idea how much of a challenge this is and how much of a message this is," noted ultra-Orthodox affairs correspondent Yehuda Aharoni regarding this new voice in politics.

Point 1. Attitude towards rabbis

This movement represents a dramatic shift in the ultra-Orthodox sector. "Elections in the ultra-Orthodox public are often predetermined. The average person does not choose but follows the rabbis' instructions. Our initiative tells them to choose for themselves. A few years ago, this would have been absurd, but today many want to make their own decisions," Aharoni noted.

Media personality Hadar Miller pointed out that many ultra-Orthodox votes are leaking to Itamar Ben Gvir and the Likud. She noted that while the ultra-Orthodox population is growing, their parliamentary mandates remain stagnant. Aharoni added that there is widespread frustration with the performance of current representatives from Shas, United Torah Judaism, and Degel HaTorah.

Point 2. Democracy and the representative model

Shlomo Alboim presented a participatory model: "We are building a party where all representatives are elected in primaries. The party will operate a council of at least one hundred people who will participate in every decision. This ensures that the voting public has representatives beyond the MKs, influencing the decision-making process throughout the entire term."

Regarding primary candidates, Alboim explained the sensitivity of the situation: "Known figures and anyone considering joining understands they will face pressure. Those with something to lose are very cautious. Even the professionals working with us ask to keep it secret."

Point 3. Conscription and more

Alboim addressed the issue of conscription, clarifying that while he is the chairman, the structure of the primaries will determine future leadership positions. However, he outlined a direction: "It is clear that those for whom Torah is not their craft need a place to go. We must ensure they can enter as ultra-Orthodox and leave as ultra-Orthodox. Currently, representatives turn a blind eye to those who do not study. We believe they should be able to serve in an ultra-Orthodox framework."

Regarding fears of wasting right-wing votes, Alboim stated: "We are responsible. If we see that we pose a danger, we will act accordingly." He also did not rule out the possibility of women running in the primaries, stating that under the party's model, "whoever is chosen will decide."