Last update - 00:00 14/06/2007
State Prosecutor defers plan to quit until successor named
By Yuval Yoaz, Haaretz Correspondent
State Prosecutor Eran Shendar announced on Thursday his intention to remain in office until a replacement is chosen, saying the delay will allow his successor to take office in an orderly fashion.
Meanwhile, Shednar lashed out against Justice Minister Daniel Friedmann, saying it was inappropriate he pick his replacement because of his ties with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, who is currently under police investigation.
Shendar said his successor will have to recommend whether or not to indict Olmert, and therefore cannot be appointed by a someone close to him such as Friedmann.
Last week the State Proscutor announced his plans to quit his post three years into his six-year term.
Shendar informed Attorney General Menachem Mazuz of his decision, as well as the different prosecutors across the country. The timing of the announcement means that the committee to select Shendar's replacement can convene, in an effort to ensure a smooth transition to the next state prosecutor.
In interviews over the past few months, Shendar indicated that he had no desire to remain in the post but declined to state when he would resign.