“The Knesset demands that an independent panel be established to investigate the second war in Lebanon and to examine the functioning of the government dealing with the Home Front,” read the motion.
The measure was sponsored by a rare coalition of two Knesset members from two parties at opposite ends of the political spectrum, Aryeh Eldad (National Union) and Haim Oron (Meretz).
“Although this is a decision of only sentimental value, it nevertheless is very important as it is designated to weaken the coalition line,” said Oron. The declaration was actually a motion of support for an independent panel, rather than a legislative measure. It passed by one vote, 11 to 10, in a vocal vote taken on a day when the Kadima coalition presence was especially low.
An independent state panel of inquiry would have the power to dismiss ministers in the government, including the prime minister, in the event that evidence emerged that would implicate those officials in wrongdoing.
The measure was sponsored by a rare coalition of two Knesset members from two parties at opposite ends of the political spectrum, Aryeh Eldad (National Union) and Haim Oron (Meretz).
“Although this is a decision of only sentimental value, it nevertheless is very important as it is designated to weaken the coalition line,” said Oron. The declaration was actually a motion of support for an independent panel, rather than a legislative measure. It passed by one vote, 11 to 10, in a vocal vote taken on a day when the Kadima coalition presence was especially low.
An independent state panel of inquiry would have the power to dismiss ministers in the government, including the prime minister, in the event that evidence emerged that would implicate those officials in wrongdoing.