PN Nominates Bernard Grech for Deputy Speaker, U-turns on Carmelo Abela
In an unexpected turn of events, the Nationalist Party (PN) has nominated Bernard Grech as its candidate for Deputy Speaker of the House, a move that has Malta’s political scene. The nomination, announced yesterday, comes just days after the party’s leader, Bernard Grech, had expressed his support for Carmelo Abela, the Labour Party’s candidate for the same position.
Bernard Grech: The Surprise Candidate
Bernard Grech, a lawyer by profession and a long-standing member of the PN, has been a familiar face in Maltese politics. However, his nomination for Deputy Speaker has caught many off guard. Grech, who has been a member of the House of Representatives since 2008, has served in various roles within the PN, but this is his first time vying for such a high-profile position.
When asked about his nomination, Grech stated, “I am honoured to have been nominated by my party. I believe that my experience and commitment to democracy make me a strong candidate for this role.” Grech’s nomination has been welcomed by some within the PN, who see it as a sign of the party’s commitment to internal democracy and renewal.
PN’s U-turn on Carmelo Abela
Just last week, Bernard Grech had expressed his support for Carmelo Abela, the Labour Party’s candidate for Deputy Speaker. Abela, a veteran politician and the current Minister for Foreign and European Affairs, was expected to be a shoe-in for the position. However, the PN’s sudden change of heart has thrown a spanner in the works.
When asked about the PN’s U-turn, a party spokesperson stated, “We believe that Bernard Grech’s extensive experience and commitment to the party make him the best candidate for this role. We wish him all the best in his nomination.” Meanwhile, the Labour Party has remained tight-lipped about the PN’s decision, with Carmelo Abela declining to comment when approached by Hot Malta.
What This Means for Maltese Politics
The nomination of Bernard Grech as the PN’s candidate for Deputy Speaker is just the latest twist in Malta’s political drama. The position of Deputy Speaker is a crucial one, acting as a neutral arbiter in the House of Representatives. The PN’s decision to put forward its own candidate, after initially supporting Abela, suggests a desire to assert its influence in the House.
the nomination of Grech, a seasoned politician but not a high-profile one, could signal a shift in the PN’s strategy. Some political analysts have suggested that the party is looking to project a more consensus-driven image, one that is willing to work with other parties to get things done.
how this political drama will play out. One thing is certain, though: the upcoming parliamentary session is shaping up to be a fascinating one, with the Deputy Speaker’s position likely to be a hotly contested one.
