Defense minister says Independence Party will run alone in upcoming elections, claims has no secure spot with Likud. Taking a jab at journalist-turned-politician, he says ´elections are not an elimination episode in a reality show´

Defense Minister Ehud Barak announced that his Independence Party will run an independent campaign in the upcoming elections, which are likely to be held on September 4.

Speaking at a press conference in Tel Aviv, he took a jab at Yair Lapid saying, "I came here without a teleprompter, but with a record." On Tuesday, Lapid had addressed his supporters with the help of two transparent screens.

"We have come here to tell you than Independence is running in the elections," Barak said.

The defense minister denied getting a secure spot with the Likud. "We have come to end the rumors suggesting we have a secure spot or are not running. We are running independently with the Independence Party. Elections are not an elimination episode in a reality show," Barak said.

The defense minister added that if elected, he may continue on in his current position. "We have a steady hand and are calling Israelis to join us in order for me to continue to hold a position of influence and power as defense minister in the next government." Minister Shalom Simhon said that Independence is offering a "ruling alternative" and slammed Kadima. "Everyone is falling apart. We will get four Knesset seats just from the minorities sector and the kibbutzim."

One of the recent polls predicted that Independence will win three Knesset seats.

Addressing Tzipi Livni´s resignation from the Knesset, Barak said: "I hope people like her continue to join the political system." Joking with the reporters he added, "Olmert is gone, Ramon is gone, Tzipi left. It´s hard being alone, but I´m here." (Copyright 2012 © Yedioth Internet 05/02/12)