What I have been mulling around in my mind the last few days was just published in the evening news medias: If Tzipi Livni refuses a unity government with Likud, then several key Kadima members may return to Likud - having jumped ship earlier when Ariel Sharon broke away and formed the new Kadima party.
I am appalled however that Bibi is still mentioning Barak to continue as Defense Minister (and for that matter, Livni as Foreign Minister). I am assuming he feels that under his leadership they would act differently. These suggestions are from the media and not necessarily out of Netanyahu's mouth, so whether they are really still true or not, we cannot be certain. One report tonight said that Bibi was even willing to give Livni veto power over government decisions. Such a position would certainly undermine and undercut the wishes of the electorate for a right wing government.
Bibi is rightfully very concerned that a strong opposition could block every move a right wing government tries to make. So, while a unity government has some advantages, it would have to be carefully put together. It seems to me that some of the good people in Kadima coming over to Likud would give Netanyahu the best of both worlds. An addition of capable centrists to his government would give the broader base he is seeking, but he wouldn't be stymied by the beligerence of Livni and Barak.
At the same time, Kadimas position in the opposition would be weakened. Bibi is still stinging from what he perceives to be his mistake in the late 90's to not form a unity government, but he needs to be very thoughtful and careful, not reactive as he puts this coalition together.
8 years ago
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