Full Breakdown
Avi Slama Elected as Mayor of Netanya Following Miriam Feirberg-Ikar's Passing
1/21/2026, 9:55:25 PM
Election Overview
Avi Slama, a member of the Likud party, has been elected as the new mayor of Netanya, securing a decisive victory in a special election held on Tuesday. This election was necessitated by the death of longtime mayor Miriam Feirberg-Ikar, who passed away in November after a prolonged illness. Slama garnered approximately 68% of the votes cast, significantly outpacing acting mayor Tali Mulner, who received around 27.5%. The election involved 218,000 eligible voters, marking a pivotal moment in the city's leadership.
Background of the Election
Miriam Feirberg-Ikar served as the mayor of Netanya for nearly three decades, from 1998 until her death. Her tenure was characterized by significant developments in the city, making her a prominent figure in local politics. Slama, who has been a council member since 2018 and previously led the opposition, ran on a platform focused on modernizing the municipal system, enhancing transportation infrastructure, and investing in education and public safety.
Slama's Vision and Promises
In his victory speech, Slama expressed deep respect for Feirberg-Ikar, referring to her as "a giant figure" in the city. He emphasized his commitment to lead Netanya towards national achievements and to implement necessary changes. Slama stated, "I pledge to be the mayor of all of them, of those who elected me and of those who did not. Together, we will make Netanya a better place to live." His campaign resonated with many residents who view him as a leader capable of uniting the community and driving transformation in local governance.
Official Endorsements and Support
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly endorsed Slama's candidacy, visiting Netanya on election day to demonstrate his support. This backing from the ruling party likely contributed to Slama's strong electoral performance. His campaign was marked by the involvement of numerous volunteers and a dedicated campaign team, which he acknowledged in his speech, stating, "This victory is not mine, it is yours. It’s for the city of Netanya."
Criticism and Opposition
While Slama's victory was celebrated by many, there are concerns about the challenges he may face in fulfilling his ambitious promises. Critics may question whether he can effectively implement the changes he advocates, particularly in a city with a long-standing political legacy. The transition from Feirberg-Ikar's leadership to Slama's will be closely monitored by both supporters and detractors.
What's Next for Netanya
As Slama assumes office, he is expected to focus on his campaign promises, including improving public services and enhancing community engagement. His leadership style and effectiveness in addressing the city's needs will be pivotal in shaping Netanya's future. The community will be watching closely to see how Slama navigates the complexities of local governance and fulfills the expectations set during his campaign.
