(Updated Monday 9:30 AM) Boasting a voter turnout of over 95% of its 1,030 Central Committee members, the National Religious Party (NRP) yesterday selected its list to the 16th Knesset. With Infrastructures Minister Effie Eitam guaranteed the top spot in the party, suspense was brewing over which Knesset hopefuls would secure spots two-five. Analysts say that the NRP will only win five, or possibly six, seats in the upcoming national elections.
Coming in at number two was MK Zevulun Orlev, followed by MK's Sha'ul Yahalom, and Rabbi Yitzchak Levy. Rounding out the top five was Tel Aviv principal Gila Finkelstein. Last week, Eitam insisted that the fifth spot on the ticket be reserved for a woman. He even threatened to resign from the party should his demand not become a reality. MK Yigal Bibi who was expected to earn a top spot after his candidacy was endorsed by former Chief Rabbi and NRP spiritual leader Mordechai Eliahu, came in a disappointing eighth.
Coming in at number two was MK Zevulun Orlev, followed by MK's Sha'ul Yahalom, and Rabbi Yitzchak Levy. Rounding out the top five was Tel Aviv principal Gila Finkelstein. Last week, Eitam insisted that the fifth spot on the ticket be reserved for a woman. He even threatened to resign from the party should his demand not become a reality. MK Yigal Bibi who was expected to earn a top spot after his candidacy was endorsed by former Chief Rabbi and NRP spiritual leader Mordechai Eliahu, came in a disappointing eighth.