Web posted Friday September 3, 15:50
This morning, caretaker Likud leader Ariel Sharon became the elected chairman following his victory over Jerusalem mayor Ehud Olmert and MK and former Minister of Finance Meir Sheetrit. Sharon called on his leadership rivals to work together with him to rebuild the Likud movement and prepare for victory in the next elections.
Sharon was elected for a two year term. Fresh elections will be held after two years to decide on the party's candidate for prime minister in the next general election. Sharon today stated his intention of competing in those elections.
The turnout in the Likud poll was very low. Only 35% of those eligible participated. Sharon took 53% of the vote, Olmert 25% and Sheetrit 22%.
There was speculation in Israel today that talks might be renewed between Sharon and Prime Minister Ehud Barak on the possibility of the Likud joining the coalition. The speculation was strengthened by the call from the spiritual leaders of the United Torah Judaism party for the party to leave the coalition on Sunday if, as scheduled, further parts of the Electric Corporation's turbine for its new power station in Ashkelon are transported tonight, during the Jewish Sabbath.
Published by Israel's Business Arena Seotember 3, 1999
Sheetrit, Olmert Seeking to Impose Second Round on Sharon
Elections for the Likud’s party chairman opened at 10:00 AM today. With the exception of the northern region, all polling stations opened without problems.
The stations will close at 22:00 PM, and the initial official results will be announced two hours later.
Should turnout be lower than 50%, it is estimated that Meir Sheetrit and Ehud Olmert may impose a second round on Ariel Sharon.
Sheetrit asserted today that Ariel Sharon would not lead the Likud in the next national elections.
Published by Israel's Business Arena September 2, 1999