Shas leaders Eli Yishai and Aryeh Deri on Thursday 2 Cheshvan 5773 appeared on Channel 2 News together in a display of achdus, as they are now working to allay the fears of voters, assuring them they have put their differences behind them and are now working together ahead of the election in compliance with the ruling of Maran HaGaon HaRav Ovadia Yosef Shlita. The two are aware many voters are concerned, some fearing the party will implode due to the decision forced upon them by Rav Ovadia.

When asked if they will be able to continue working side by side, Deri stated that after 12 years apart, there will certainly be differences of opinion since they each see things in their own way. He added that the party leader is Maran Rav Ovadia, and “we are past the age of concerning ourselves with kovod”, admitting he wants a cabinet post that will permit him to assist “half the nation that doesn’t have”, referring to the lower class.

Yishai stated “this is what the public and Rav Ovadia want, and this is the way it is going to be”. He added that it took them a week but an agreement was reached and this is the new reality, emphasizing for him, it does not matter who has the first slot in the lineup.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)