Livni silent on political future

Former Kadima leader is not expected to attend upcoming Kadima faction meeting, pre-Passover toast hosted by Mofaz.

By GIL STERN STERN HOFFMAN
Former Kadima leader Tzipi Livni_370 (photo credit: Nir Elias/Reuters)
Former Kadima leader Tzipi Livni_370
(photo credit: Nir Elias/Reuters)
Former Kadima leader Tzipi Livni does not intend to announce her political future over the next few days, sources close to her said Saturday night.
Livni, who lost last Tuesday’s primary by a landslide, is not expected to attend Monday’s Kadima faction meeting or Wednesday’s pre- Passover toast hosted by her successor, MK Shaul Mofaz.
Speculation has centered on whether Livni will quit politics or accept Mofaz’s leadership and remain a Kadima MK. Livni posted a message on her Facebook over the weekend in which she praised her supporters but did not reveal her future.
“Over the last few days, you became even more genuine and close in your support and your concern,” Livni wrote. “I have been touched by your personal support and concern for the future of the country we are a partner in.”
Livni wished her supporters “a weekend of cleaning your mind and heart,” meaning time to think things through.
If Livni quits the Knesset, she would be replaced by the next candidate on the Kadima list, Ramat Hasharon Development Company CEO Yuval Zellner. Zellner was Mofaz’s campaign manager in his race against Livni for the party leadership in 2008.
“I would be happy to enter the Knesset, but right now, I am happy with my current job,” Zellner said. “I hope Tzipi Livni stays and continues to serve the party for many years.”