Olmert To Be Investigated

In light of the recent revelations about improper practice, State Prosecutor Eran Shendar has instructed the police to instigate a a criminal investigation against Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. The investigation relates to the recent sale of the state's controlling interest in Bank Leumi. It has been alleged that Olmert tried to help along the sale of the bank to his 'close personal associate', Frank Lowy.

The subsequent announcement of the impending criminal investigation, has led to opposition MK's calling for new elections. According to Haaretz:

Meretz Chairman Yossi Beilin called on the prime minister to suspend himself from office, saying, "He [Olmert] is in a place where all that interests him is protecting himself. He can't even deal with state matters."

MK Yuval Steinitz (Likud) said the affair reflected the need for new elections. "The failure of the government and the harm to the purity of values necessitate elections," he said.

MK Ophir Pines Paz (Labor) said, "The citizens of Israel are worthy of leaders who don't make it to the investigation room."

The Movement for Quality Government said, "When another ruling prime minister is investigated, it is a black day for democracy."

Once again, a leader with close ties to the White House is caught up in a corruption scandal. Is it any surprise that trust in politicians continues to ebb away?? Once the forces of capitalism take hold, corruption is rife. It is as true in Israel as it is in every other capitalist society. The shame is that it is these scandals that do the most damage, not the flagrant disregard of human rights. You can be responsible for the deaths of thousands, just don't get caught with your hands in the coffers.