Ex-hostage’s mother Einav Zangauker says Golan broke promise to add her to Democrats’ Knesset slate

Activist Einav Zangauker, mother of former hostage Matan Zangauker, has publicly accused Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats Party, of reneging on a promise to place her near the top of the party's Knesset slate. Zangauker revealed in an X/Twitter post on Monday that Golan had guaranteed her a prominent position in February, immediately after incumbent Knesset members.

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The commitment was reaffirmed directly by Yair himself

She detailed that Golan's associates maintained contact and that Golan himself reaffirmed the commitment on several occasions, assuring her that their agreement remained in effect. As part of the alleged deal, Zangauker stated she was asked to keep a low media profile and refrain from exploring other political opportunities, which she honored.

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From that moment on, I was asked to keep it secret. Golan’s associates maintained contact with me throughout, and on several occasions during this period, the commitment was reaffirmed directly by Yair himself

Golan responded to Zangauker's statement, admitting his decision disappointed her and expressing deep sorrow. He took full responsibility for the decision and the pain it caused. Golan explained that he chose not to reserve any spots on the party list out of respect for the 113,000 members who voted in the internal primaries and confidence in the list they selected.

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Each time, I was told that a word is a word, that our agreement remained in effect, and that after the list of candidates in the primaries had been chosen, my guaranteed placement at the top of the list would be announced.

He further clarified that this decision applied to all candidates considered for reserved spots, stating, "there will be no reserved spots." Golan extended an offer to Zangauker for a significant role in the upcoming campaign and continued collaboration after the election, emphasizing his view of her as an important partner.

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Of course, I honored my commitment and kept our agreement confidential. I kept a low profile and did not explore other options, such as running in the primaries, nor did I pursue other opportunities. I held up my end of the agreement.