Deputy Minister of the Interior Fania Kirschenbaum (Yisrael Beitenu) told the media on Wednesday 2 Teves that she has no idea why Israel Police have summoned her for questioning. Amid reports that she stands at the helm of a major bribery/money laundering operation involving over 30 civil service employees, some senior officials, Kirschenbaum insists she is clueless regarding reports of law-breaking involving her office.

Kirschenbaum’s party was quick to defend her, telling the press that this is what takes place every time there is an election. Yisrael Beitenu officials remind the media that the same thing was done to party leader Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman prior to the elections in 1999 and he was prevented from taking his senior post until the case against him was dismissed.

“I was summoned for questioning. I haven’t a clue what is going on. I am very sorry the matter was publicized as was done” Kirschenbaum told Ynet.

Party officials add that if the case was publicized prior to announcing early elections it would be understandable but now, with elections weeks away, it is clear that there is an agenda, to deliver a blow to Yisrael Beitenu again. “Once again we are confident that after the media smoke clears along with the hype we will all learn once against that the allegations are unfounded and this is motivated simply to harm Yisrael Beitenu.”

Lahav 433 Unit police report the investigation has been ongoing for over one year.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)