The Knesset convened this afternoon for the presentation of the new government. Foreign Minister-designate Silvan Shalom opened by presenting changes in the government structure, such as the division of the Labor and Welfare Ministry into two, the disbanding of the Communications Ministry, and the like. Prime Minister Sharon's speech was frequently interrupted by hareidi-party MKs, and he said that he is still interested in a national unity government. Presenting the guidelines of his new government, he said that he would work for the freedom of "our captives, MIAs, and Azzam Azzam" - but did not mention another imprisoned Israeli citizen, Jonathan Pollard.
Sharon was then followed by Opposition Leader and new MK Amram Mitzna. Mitzna blamed Sharon for the lack of a national unity government, and promised to "lead a responsible opposition."
The session afterwards is expected to last four hours, concluding with the swearing-in of the Likud, Shinui, and National Union government ministers. Those of the NRP will be sworn in on Monday, after the party chooses them. Effie Eitam is expected to be Housing Minister, and Rabbi Yitzchak Levy and Zevulun Orlev are contesting the Welfare Ministry portfolio.
Sharon was then followed by Opposition Leader and new MK Amram Mitzna. Mitzna blamed Sharon for the lack of a national unity government, and promised to "lead a responsible opposition."
The session afterwards is expected to last four hours, concluding with the swearing-in of the Likud, Shinui, and National Union government ministers. Those of the NRP will be sworn in on Monday, after the party chooses them. Effie Eitam is expected to be Housing Minister, and Rabbi Yitzchak Levy and Zevulun Orlev are contesting the Welfare Ministry portfolio.