Olmert accuses Lindenstrauss of abusing his authority, systematic leaking, and maltreatment of the Prime Minister.

In a step unprecedented in the history of the State of Israel, the Prime Minister has asked the Attorney General to begin a criminal investigation of the State Comptroller. The latter, Micha Lindenstrauss, has been actively investigating several cases of suspected corruption on the part of the Prime Minister.

MK Zevulun Orlev (National Religious Party), who heads the Knesset's State Control Committee, said, "The Prime Minister is breaking the rules of democracy... He is trying to save himself and distract public opinion from his failures. He has done a grave act, one that threatens democracy."

MK Aryeh Eldad (National Union) called Olmert's latest move a "sad and corrupt spin." MKs Ophir Pines and Shelly Yechimovitch of the coalition's Labor Party also sharply criticized Olmert.

Attorney General Menachem Mazuz quickly rejected Olmert's request, saying that his complaints and accusations were "not in the realm of the criminal."

The request to Mazuz, delivered by Olmert's lawyers, stated that it is "Lindenstrauss who is in violation of the law because of his systematic leaks of his reports, and his maltreatment of the Prime Minister while ignoring principles of basic integrity... The Comptroller's complaint against the Prime Minister is hypocritical, coming from one who purports to be fair and responsible, but in actuality is motivated by the pursuit of fame and honor... Whoever reads the Comptroller's report on this matter is reminded of the last words of King Yannai to Queen Shlomtzion: 'Do not fear the Saducees, nor the Pharisees, but only the hypocrites...'"

The investigation at hand refers specifically to the case involving Olmert's purchase of a home on Cremeiux St. in Jerusalem.  The Prime Minister is suspected of receiving a bribe, in the form of a $330,000 discount, from the builder of the project in the capital's ritzy German Colony, in exchange for Olmert's expedition of municipal construction permits.

Comptroller Lindenstrauss has recommended to Attorney General Mazuz that a criminal investigation be opened on the case.

The NFC website, which has been at the forefront of the case, reports that Mazuz is expected to announce the investigation within two weeks, and that Olmert's letter is an attempt to counter this. Mazuz is likely to announce his decision on two other pending investigations of Olmert at the same time.