The Jerusalem District Court has frozen the tender for appointing a new director of the Economic Development Authority for Arab Society, following a petition filed by the Mossawa Center against Minister of Social Equality May Golan and the Civil Service Commission. The ruling halts the process until a final decision is made.

Mossawa, represented by attorneys Hussein Manna and Marianne Abi Nader along with legal advocacy coordinator Nibal Ardatt, argued that Tender No. 132509 lacked professional and transparent criteria and appeared politically motivated. The petition called for canceling the tender and issuing a new one through an independent search committee in consultation with Arab local authorities and civil society organizations, stressing that the position must be reserved for an Arab citizen in line with the principle of adequate representation.

Mossawa noted that the ministry had lowered eligibility standards compared to the 2020 tender, despite the Authority’s expanded responsibilities and budgets under Government Resolution 550 (2022–2026). Mandatory requirements were downgraded to “preferred” criteria, and managerial and financial experience thresholds were reduced, raising concerns about partisan appointments.

The petition also criticized the exclusive publication of the tender in Hebrew, weak Arab representation on the search committee, and potential conflicts of interest undermining the integrity of the process.

Nibal Ardatt stated: “This tender was tailored to serve partisan interests at the expense of professionalism. Key requirements were removed despite the Authority’s expanded mandate, turning it into a political tool and eroding public trust. A professional, independent Arab leadership is essential for addressing community needs and reducing historical gaps.”

The case will remain before the court in the coming period, monitored by Mossawa in cooperation with Arab local authorities and civil society groups, which stress that the integrity of this appointment will directly affect how state institutions respond to the needs of Arab society.