Avi Slama Wins Netanya Mayoral Election

Avi Slama has emerged as the new mayor of Netanya, securing a decisive victory in a special election held to fill the vacancy left by the death of the city's longtime leader. The election, which took place on January 21, 2026, saw the Likud candidate capture a commanding majority of the vote.

The race was primarily contested between Slama and acting mayor Tali Mulner, who had been serving in the interim role. Slama's win with 68% of the vote signals a clear mandate from the electorate and concludes a period of transitional leadership for the coastal city.

The special mayoral vote in Netanya resulted in a clear and decisive outcome, with Avi Slama securing 68% of the total ballots cast. This overwhelming majority effectively ended the campaign of his sole opponent, Tali Mulner, who garnered 27% of the vote.

The election was formally called following the passing of the previous mayor, Miriam Feirberg-Ikar, who died of an illness while serving her term. Her death created an unexpected vacancy, prompting the need for a special election to determine her successor.

The results reflect a significant political transition for the city. The margin of victory indicates strong public support for Slama's platform and a desire for a new direction under his leadership.

• Avi Slama (Likud): 68% of the vote
• Tali Mulner (Acting Mayor): 27% of the vote
• Turnout: A decisive mandate for the incoming administration

Netanya has been navigating a period of uncertainty following the death of its long-serving mayor, Miriam Feirberg-Ikar. Her passing while in office left a significant leadership void, necessitating the appointment of an acting mayor to oversee municipal affairs until a permanent successor could be elected.

Tali Mulner stepped into this interim role, tasked with maintaining continuity in governance. However, the special election provided the city's residents with the opportunity to choose their next leader directly, ending the temporary administration.

The transition from an acting mayor to a newly elected official marks a pivotal moment for the city's administration. It allows for the implementation of a fresh mandate and the beginning of a new chapter in Netanya's civic development.

The election outcome underscores the continued influence of the Likud party in municipal politics within the region. Avi Slama's affiliation with the national party was a key component of his campaign, aligning his local platform with broader political currents.

The victory represents a consolidation of political power, as the incoming mayor enters office with a strong electoral mandate. This provides a solid foundation for his administration to pursue its policy goals and engage with the city council.

The result also highlights the dynamics of local elections, where national party affiliations often intersect with community-specific issues. Slama's ability to connect with a broad majority of voters secured his path to the mayor's office.

With the election concluded, Avi Slama is set to assume the duties of mayor, inheriting a city that has been managed on an interim basis. His immediate tasks will likely include forming a new administrative team and outlining his strategic priorities for Netanya's future.

The new mayor will face the challenge of translating his campaign promises into actionable policies. Residents and observers will be watching closely to see how his administration addresses key municipal concerns and builds upon the city's existing infrastructure and services.

This election marks the end of a period of mourning and transition for Netanya. The focus now shifts to governance under new leadership, with the city looking to its newly elected mayor for direction and stability.