Labor Party leader Avi Gabbay appointed MK Shelly Yacimovich as opposition leader on Tuesday, after publicly firing Tzipi Livni, who held that post, on live television.
“I am proud of Shelly, who is a terrific MK who leads determined struggles in and out of the Knesset,” Gabbay said. “Shelly filled the role of opposition leader well before. She will help us prepare for the election and for victory.”
Yacimovich acknowledged that much of the role of opposition leader can only be fulfilled when the Knesset is in session. But she said she would still work to galvanize the opposition.
“We will work together toward the goal of replacing the government with one that pursues peace, fights socioeconomic gaps and respects democracy and the rule of law,” Yacimovich said.
Yachimovich said Gabbay dismissing Livni was “brave and an act of leadership,” and that Livni “refused to accept the leadership” of Gabbay and weakened the party.
When Yacimovich headed the opposition from 2012 to 2013, foreign leaders avoided meeting Yacimovich due to her focus on socioeconomic issues, despite their obligation to meet with her under protocol.
MK Itzik Shmuli will head the new separate Labor faction. Livni ally Yoel Hasson, who headed the combined Zionist Union faction, will now chair only the five-MK Hatnua faction of Livni.