A controversial Russian-Israeli magnate plans to run for Jerusalem mayor. Arkady Gaydamak announced this week that he will challenge incumbent Uri Lupoliansky in an election scheduled for November 2008. “I am certain that the whole city will vote for me,” Gaydamak told Yediot Achronot on Monday. “Jerusalem is a symbol for the Jewish people, and I intend to turn it into a symbol of peace and Judaism. The city will be much better, and not only from an economic perspective. It will also turn into a symbol of the Jewish spirit.” Lupoliansky’s office had no immediate comment. Gaydamak, believed to be a billionaire, in recent months has won Israeli hearts with a high-profile philanthropy campaign. Critics said the Russian immigrant, who speaks little Hebrew, is trying to buy his way into power. Gaydamak has made little secret of his political ambitions, saying he eventually could run for prime minister. Current Prime Minister Ehud Olmert formerly was Jerusalem’s mayor.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
