After 13 as Knesset member, former Kadima chairwoman tenders formal resignation to House Speaker Rivlin. Associates say she will remain politically, publicly active

Knesset Member and former Kadima Chairwoman Tzipi Livni is expected to officially resigned the Knesset on Tuesday.

Livni will reportedly tender her resignation to Knesset Speaker Reuven Rivlin at noon.

Livni’s loss in the Kadima primaries to Shaul Mofaz, who won 62% of the votes, immediately sparked speculations regarding her future in politics.

She herself had remained mum regarding her plans over the past few weeks. But as the Knesset’s summer session began Monday, Livni decided it was time to announce her decision.

Livni’s associates insist that she intended to remain publicly and politically active, albeit outside the House.

The former chairwoman’s associates added that “While Livni isn’t leaving Kadima at this time, there’s no reason to rule out other options, including a new party.

“Her resignation will allow her to better review her options and anything is possible. She has not ruled out the possibility of joining Yair Lapid, either,” a political source told Ynet.

The announcement comes amid growing speculations that Israel will see early elections in the fall.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in the past that he would not move for early elections, but was recently quoted as saying the next elections may be held as soon as September 4.

Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman said Monday that “the decision has been made and now we should hold the elections as soon as possible.”

MK Ronit Tirosh (Kadima) commented on Linvi’s resignation, saying she was sure “her talent and experience wills serve Israel in the future. I’m happy she’s not quitting politics altogether. I also hope the decision doesn’t discourage other women from running for office. Our politics needs quality women.”

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By Attila Somfalvi
Moran Azulay contributed to this report