MK Colette Avital announces presidential candidacy

MK Colette Avital (Labor) announced Tuesday her plans to run for president of Israel. "The idea of a female president is important in view of the advancement of women in Israel. Women can contribute a great deal to Israeli democracy. Therefore, as soon as the presidential running begins, I intend to submit my candidacy," said Avital. Avital, Israel's former consul-general in New York, arose as a possible candidate for the presidency in the wake of the sexual harassment/blackmail scandal surrounding President Moshe Katsav. "Her chances aren't bad," a senior Labor party member speculated. "She isn't involved in disputes with anyone."