Ayalon Kovo Runs for Knesset to Stop Jerusalem Model From Spreading

Esti Ayalon Kovo is contesting the 21st position on the B'Yachad party list for the upcoming Knesset elections. The former head of Israel's Economic Mission in China argues that specific social and economic fractures visible in Jerusalem are now defining the national political landscape. She is running under the leadership of Naftali Bennett to address what she views as an immediate need for governmental repair.

Ayalon Kovo, who was born in Ethiopia before immigrating to Israel, cites the October 7 attacks and the flydubai hijacking as prime examples of leadership failure. She identifies two core campaign issues: the absence of accountable governance and the necessity to preserve Israel’s status as a liberal, Zionist, Jewish, and democratic state. For her, these are not abstract concepts but urgent administrative problems.

The candidate points to the haredi community as a central point of contention. She describes a state-within-a-state dynamic that has developed around military service, education, and labor participation. Ayalon Kovo stated that this structure must be dismantled. If the current trends continue, she predicts the specific economic and social challenges seen in Jerusalem will expand across the entire country.

Her personal connection to the capital dates back to her family's relocation to the Beit Hakerem neighborhood. The move was driven by her children's school admissions. She described the area as unique and expressed a strong attachment to the city. "I couldn't imagine being anywhere else," she said regarding her life in Jerusalem. She also noted that the city is never boring.

Ayalon Kovo stated that her primary motivation for entering politics is securing a better future for her children. She believes the country requires effective governance and thorough planning for basic challenges. She maintains that Bennett is the only figure capable of delivering these repairs. Her diplomatic career began with a desire to represent Israel globally, which later evolved into an appreciation for the complexity of the field.

She also directed advice to new immigrants who wish to influence Israeli public life. "You didn't come here to sit back and watch Israel's story unfold," she told olim. She urged them to take an active part in shaping their new home. She suggested that running in elections is a practical starting point for engagement.

The B'Yachad list is currently open to candidates who seek change after recent years of political difficulty. Ayalon Kovo’s background combines international economic experience with local knowledge of Jerusalem’s social tensions. The interview where these details emerged was conducted by In Jerusalem prior to the voting day.