maltatoday Issue 8 • Monday, 10 March 2008 •www. 2008 8•Monday, 10 March Issue GONZI MALTATODAY POLLSVINDICATED election special election PN MAJORITIES THE SLIMMEST OF WINS 159, Labour Avenue, Naxxar Tel: 2388 7939 0088, 2939 49.3% MLP m altatoday.co m . m t WITH WITH 48.9% P R I CE €0.50 /Lm0.21 €0.50 LOSE B A D D P G 5 R

Newspaper post 2 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 news news Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 3

GENERAL GENERAL ELECTIONS 2008 ELECTIONS 2008 – minute for minute – minute for minute

SATURDAY – 8 March 10:26 – A tense wait and see. Gonzi wins by narrowest of margins But Labour insiders told MT that 17:51 – Party leaders from all four they expect an 8,000 majority. political parties cast their vote on a Sorting is still under way and quiet voting day where no incidents RAPHAEL VASSALLO of 1966-1971. Although victori- party’s supporters out into the Naxxar. Acknowledging that counting is expected in 45 were reported, and a sense of ous, the PN has ironically also streets in a celebration which the election was too close to call, minutes’ time. A clear indication is business as usual prevailed in most emerged as the biggest individ- proved to be premature. As the Falzon stopped short of actu- expected at midday. Maltese towns and villages. The ual loser from the election, suf- day wore on, samples began to ally conceding defeat, even after tension was however perceptible THE Nationalist Party has won fering a significant drop of 4%: show a trend in favour of a PN Saliba had proclaimed victory. 11:19 – Labour supporters for among political activists of all the 2008 general election with a around 10,800 votes. come-back. Despite many ru- More significantly, he also said carcade in and other political parties. With over 5,000 localities. voting documents uncollected, slender majority of 1,200 votes, Nonetheless, last October’s mours to the contrary, it became would not rule out the possibil- party offi cials were trying very hard failing to achieve absolute ma- Constitutional amendments evident by early evening that ity of a recount. 12:15 – Owen Bonnici, a Labour to keep calm. The fi rst unconfi rmed jority with a total tally of 49.3%. guarantee Prime Minister Gonzi the Nationalist party was in fact The MLP-owned news por- candidate, tells MaltaToday that news was the arrest of two offi cials This makes the PN the first po- a parliamentary majority of a ahead. At one point, the lowest tal Maltastar.com had already his wife had given birth to a girl from MTA and MEPA over the litical party ever to win three single seat. It is therefore a dou- difference between the parties announced a PN victory; but on election day, but still visited Mistra saga, released on Maltastar. elections in a row. ble-edged victory, which leaves indicated by a single sample was soon afterwards, the story was the polling booth to vote. com but there was no independent The gained Dr Gonzi in a considerably just 30 votes. changed under the headline: confi rmation. just over 1% from its last election weakened position vis-à-vis his In the end it was only at 9.30pm “PN claims victory, Labour says 12:18 – Nationalist MP tells MT the election is a touch 18:26 – Rumours that hunters result with 48.9%, while Alter- former five-seat majority. that PN secretary general Joe result still in the balance. and go affair and one must wait have deposited over 1,000 voting nattiva Demokratika obtained Yesterday’s results came af- Saliba told counting agents in At the time of going to print, and see.12:39 – Sorting starts, documents at the Nationalist HQ 1.5% - more than double its 2003 ter nine hours of counting and Naxxar that “all indications the MLP had still not officially tension runs high. prove to be untrue after MaltaToday showing, but not enough to scenes of high tension at the point towards a PN victory by commented on the election re- talks to PN offi cials. clinch a seat in parliament. Naxxar counting hall. Early into 1,200 votes.” By that point, Jason sult, claiming that it preferred 12:40 – Angelo Xuereb of Azzjoni This places at the proceedings, a smiling MLP Micallef had put on his invisibil- waiting for the official results to Nazzjonali tells MT, “our message 20:09 – Voting time is extended reached the people, so much to 2300hrs. It is believed at fi rst the helm of a minority govern- secretary general Jason Micallef ity cloak, and it was left to MLP be announced by the electoral ment: the first of its kind since hinted at an absolute majority deputy leader Michael Falzon commission. Nor had it request- so that the parties view us as a that it’s the Nationalists who have threat.” demanded an extension to the the Borg Olivier administration for Labour: a fact which sent the to face the Labour hopefuls at ed a recount. voting time. 12:44 – Jason Micallef tells MT that the Labour has strong 21:58 – The International Herald majority Tribune quotes MT journalist and survey coordinator James ‘I was seriously considering whether 13:09 – No news from counting Debono - “Some people say: ‘Well, hall, other than the large number there is the problem of the same of fi rst-count votes for party government, but is the opposition I should contest’ – Mugliett THERESE DEBONO leaders Lawrence Gonzi and better?’ Labour is more convincing . on the count of corruption, while on issues like job creation, health JULIA FARRUGIA “Yes, I went through a very also I wanted to give my help so self, my family and the closest 13:16 – and Mario De care the Nationalist Party is more difficult time. There was a that my party will be re-elected people around me.” Marco appear as frontrunners for convincing.” time when I was asking myself in government. These were the Mugliett also said that the PN in the 1st district. PHOTOGRAPHY BY OUTGOING minister Jesmond whether I should contest or two reasons that convinced me throughout the electoral cam- Scenes of jubilation outside the PN headquarters, and below, Joe Saliba at the heart of celebrations at the counting hall 22:08 – Unibet’s Lennart Ehlinger 13:21 – Party offi cials on 2nd tells MaltaToday: “This is the Mugliett revealed with Malta- not,” claimed Mugliett. to go for it,” Mugliett said. paign he noticed a positive Today yesterday that until a few “But then I said to myself that Mugliett ruled out the option turnout towards the PN, in- district careful about dubious fi rst time we’re taking bets on an votes - tension runs high. election in Malta. Of course, we’ve weeks before the election he was a minister needs to be account- that he had discussed his can- cluding Labourites whom he been offering bets on elections seriously considering whether able till the very end and I decid- didature within the Nationalist claimed had showed sympathy 13:34 – Labour is waiting for in other countries for a long he should contest or not. ed to contest the election. And Party. “I kept this between my- with him. the fi nal sample of 75,000 votes, time now – be it in the US or in as they expect a victory, with different parts of Europe. So far, a swing in Gozo and a four- we’re pleasantly surprised with candidate majority on the 2nd the turnout. It was well received in district. Helena Dalli leads in Malta and this is probably due to the 3rd district for Labour and the fact that the Maltese are well for the informed on political affairs. The PN. way it works is not very different from sports.” 13:41 – Labour offi cials are more cautious, stating that the SUNDAY – 9 March result will be very close.

02:00 – Exit polls carried out by 13:49 – Emanuel Micallef says MT in the 10th district reveal that on PBS that one of Gonzi’s Robert Arrigo is the PN’s preferred biggest faults was his failure to candidate. But the poll also have a Cabinet reshuffl e and then indicates a surprise showing for promise a new young Cabinet John Dalli, who turns out to be third when in government. most preferred PN candidate. 13:52 - PN offi cials tell MT that 02:16 – Turnout was 3% down the tide is turning to their favour. from 2003. In 2003 the turnout was 96%. In 2003 the EU 14:14 – PN offi cials tell MT accession issue was a prime the difference between the two reason for the high turnout. The parties stands at 1% so they are lowest turnouts were in the fi rst, still hopeful that the PN could turn 9th and 10th districts, and 13th the tide. (Gozo) districts. The districts are notably Nationalist strongholds. 14:27 – Both MLP and PN Local elections were also held offi cials tell MT the election will yesterday and the turnout here was be a cliffhanger. 86%.

02:25 – Political stations run a long night vigil of the arrival and reconciliation of voting documents, a tedious process which still attracts viewers who stay up the whole night long. Claudio Grech, personal secretary to Austin Gatt, and PN president Victor Scerri after the announcement of the PN’s victory 02:30 – If the sorting of votes commences by 10:30, the political parties will have a clear indication of the fi nal result around midday. 1971-2003 Vote difference between major parties Third Party Vote % Votes 1971 1 1756 03:15 – The PN removed most of Number of Votes % diff % Majority Seat Majority its billboards during the night and 1976 0 0 early morning of 9 March. 1971 4695 2.8 MLP 1 (MLP) 1976 6303 3.1 MLP 3 (MLP) 1981 0 0 03:20 – Economist Prof Edward 1981 4142 1.9 PN 3 (MLP) 1987 0.2 499 Scicluna, who served as MSCED 1987 4785 1.9 PN 1 (PN) chairman during a Nationalist 1992 13021 5.3 PN 3 (PN) 1992 1.7 4186 administration but later fell out of favour, tells One News that the fall 1996 7633 2.9 MLP 1 (MLP) 1996 1.5 3820 in the voter turnout would mean 1998 12817 4.8 PN 5 (PN) 1998 1.2 3208 thousands of lost votes for the PN. 2003 12080 4.3 PN 5 (PN) 2003 0.7 1929 4 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 news news Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 5 GENERAL GENERAL ELECTIONS 2008 ELECTIONS 2008 – minute for minute – minute for minute

14:30 - First records from 17:23 – Labour’s other deputy 10th district confi rm exit poll leader Michael Falzon still cautions trend issued by MT on Sunday against any “irresponsible” morning, which registered in As PN claims victory, Labour declarations of victory. order of preference, fi rst place for Nationalist candidates Robert Arrigo 17:46 – PN secretary-general (15.9%), (13.5), Joe Saliba says the election is too John Dalli (11.1), Francis Zammit close to call, saying it would be Dimech (8.9), Michael Frendo (8.2); irresponsible to declare victory MLP frontrunners: Michael Falzon (11.6), (5.3); AD: at this point. Saliba announces Harry Vassallo (3.4) it’s not right to say that any party had won the election and that the 14:31 – Parties start registering holds out till the end result would be clear within three prudence in the comments of party hours, and asks party supporters offi cials. Buoyancy in the Labour MATTHEW VELLA not to celebrate in the streets. camp dips. NET TV pundits sound He said the parties would have to more positive as they warn caution. wait until all the first count votes THE Nationalist Party yes- were counted. 14:36 – Initial sampling for AD puts the Greens at a disappointing terday claimed it had won the 18:00 – AD votes for Cassola 1.5%, with Arnold Cassola on the March 2008 elections with 9th district at 3%, Victor Galea a very slim majority of 1,200 and Vassallo are estimated to be on the 13th district with 1.8%. No votes, but Labour secretary- around 2.5% to 3%. sampling exists for Harry Vassallo general Jason Micallef said on the 10th district. the party would wait until the 18:28 – The difference between official count by the Electoral the two parties stands at 1,000. 14:41 – In a terse statement to Commission before conceding The MLP has a majority of seats. the press Labour deputy leader any defeat. The difference between the two Michael Falzon says the result is still parties is 0.5% and it appears that unclear and as far as voting goes, Earlier on in the evening, La- bour internet organ maltastar. none of the parties have attained undecided. 50% plus one of the votes. com had announced a Nation- 14:50 – The mood in the streets alist victory before changing its 19:00 – Labour register a swing has changed with Labour carcades news item just minutes later to coming to an abrupt end. of 1,000 votes on the 13th a non-political story, and then district in Gozo, which sends 14:52 – AN offi cials tell MT they announcing Micallef was not waves of discontent among PN are disappointed with their fi rst conceding defeat. counting agents. The view is that count votes. AN president Charles The PN’s relative majority the difference between the two says “many people promised was leading with a small 0.4 parties stands at less than 800 their second preference vote. per cent margin over Labour. votes. However the fi rst counts do not Late in the evening, Labour refl ect this.” Paul Salomone: “We Party deputy leader Michael 19:41 – Labour sources from were not expecting to win and Falzon and Jason Micallef both Naxxar say they are trailing by neither a 50-50 situation. We are being realistic. Our party was born said Labour would be waiting 750 to 1,000 votes. They say fi ve months ago.” for the end of the first count of results. Micallef said Labour’s ebrating victory. have ended, but the party later they cannot imagine a recovery votes before officially announc- unofficial results were not the The day started off with a issued a late evening statement with the number of first-count 15:03 – PN offi cials say they have ing a result. same as those announced by the confident Jason Micallef sig- saying it had not conceded de- votes that have still not been a 4,000 majority; Labour refuse to Falzon said the result was still PN, and would be waiting for nalling that the first indica- feat until it gets the official counted. concede and insist it is too close to in the balance and that it was the official result announced by tions pointed to an absolute count from the Electoral Com- call and PN speculation is still within premature to announce a result. the Electoral Commission. majority for Labour. The mood mission. 19:45 – Vindicating MT exit margin of error. Micallef then appeared on One On the other hand, earlier on soon changed when it was an- The difference in votes be- polls on the 10th district, Robert News to say that Labour was at 9:30pm, Nationalist Party nounced that the tide had tween the two parties was so Arrigo leads as the most preferred 15:13 - PN offi cials tell MT that candidate and a surprise vote it is more like a 1,500 majority. still calling for the official count secretary general Joe Saliba changed in the PN’s favour, al- close that even after six sam- emerges for district newcomer Tension runs high at Naxxar before confirming the result. announced that all indications though Joe Saliba was adamant ples of votes obtained by the John Dalli. counting hall, PN tells activists to Micallef said the parties were were pointing to a victory for not to give out any predictions. two parties, the margin sepa- gather at Stamperija. still neck and neck and that the the Nationalist Party with a At around 8:30pm, Michael rating them was too small to 20:35 – Labour deputy leader MLP would wait for the official majority of 1,200 votes. Falzon told journalists that confirm any clear victor – the 15:14 – Labour deputy leader Michael Falzon says clear results Michael Falzon emerges into the first-count votes before issuing Soon enough, the streets were clear results would emerge by situation was totally different will become apparent by 21:30 counting hall to meet Labour a statement on the elections filled with PN supporters cel- 9:30pm when sampling would to previous elections. but does not exclude calling for a counting agents, but gives no recount. inkling of a clear result, urging “prudence on all sides”, and that Mary Louise 20:54 – Speaking to journalists, sampling results from the PN side PN deputy leader are “what they are: sampling”. Coleiro-Preca The longest day in urged caution. None of the parties will make an official declaration 15:24 – PN information secretary Gordon Pisani urges prudence: first elected before the first count ends and the samples from the 519 ballot votes are counted. He said this boxes are still being analysed and candidate urge for caution was also a sign extrapolated. Maltese politics of responsibility when the result JULIA FARRUGIA is so close. In Italy, in Austriaand 15:57 – PN pundits and sources in in Germany there have been exude confi dence, with high sources KARL SCHEMBRI close results recently as well, the confi rming victory for the PN with OBTAINING 5,490 in the first deputy PN leader said. MaltaToday, and the banter on NET count on the sixth district, Mary TV typical of a victory yet to be Louise Coleiro-Preca was the 21:25 – PN win election 2008 by announced. WHO said a week is a long time first elected candidate in Sunday’s in politics? What about a day? slimmest of margins. Joe Saliba election. A tired Coleiro-Preca announces that the PN won the 15:40 – Labour offi cials tell MT What about 9 March, 2008? they are waiting for the PN to expressed thanks to the elector- election by 1,200 votes. From early morning, Labour ate: declare victory for them to concede was already preparing for its defeat. “I am satisfied, honesty won. 21:31 – The PN has won by a big victory, with officials from Those who are suffering, even relative majority and will have one 16:14 – Lawrence Gonzi is the higher echelons spreading though they are not the ‘trendiest’ more seat than the MLP, which in expected to visit the counting hall the word unofficially about people in society, are capable of fact won a majority of seats. It’s at 17:00h. a landslide win for the party. showing their appreciation. I will the first party ever in Malta to win The word spread quickly as continue to show my full support three elections in a row. 17:16 – No sign of Lawrence party faithful were taking to Gonzi but celebrations begin inside to the workers, the families and the streets in unofficial car- 22:28 – Labour secretary-general the Naxxar counting hall, with PN young children and those who are counting agents banging on the cades from as early as 10am socially excluded,” said the former Jason Micallef issues a statement perspex and shouting “Gonzi, yesterday, while the PN was so- Labour secretary-general. saying the parties were still neck Gonzi”. berly resigned to what seemed “I will keep on working in favour and neck and that the MLP would like a sure defeat, in line with the PN counting agents and were the only confirmation of these people. I really appreci- wait for the official first-count 17:18 – PN wins, TVM declares, as predictions. their officials were all of a sud- available along the corridors ated the trust shown by the fami- votes before issuing a statement jubilation reigns at Naxxar counting Yet by 1.30pm, the smirks den patting each other’s backs in the counting hall, but what on the elections results. Micallef halls, minutes before Labour deputy lies in the Sixth District, people and smug looks of the Labour and giving encouraging signs was expected to be a matter from Qormi, and Siggiewi,” says Labour’s unofficial results are leader talks of a coterie in the counting hall to each other. From a step away of minutes turned into a wait- not the same as those announced “photo-fi nish”. said Coleiro-Preca. “When the by the PN, and will be waiting for quickly turned into deadpan from jubilation, Labour ended ing game spanning hours, long Districts were amended I lost faces as a wave of insecurity up in a clear situation of dis- hours, in turn expanding into the official result announced by Labour deputy leader Michael Falzon yesterday faced the press as he repeatedly stood his ground that the results were too close to call 1,000 possible votes. Last time I the Electoral Commission. PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT CALLEJA hit them all. It was an unex- tress. The body language said one whole day. The longest day got 4,435, so this means that I in- pected reversal of the tide, as it all, the whispers in the air in Maltese politics. creased my votes with 2,000.” 6 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 news news Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 7 Rising stars and fallen angels

JAMES DEBONO who polled 2,383. the seventh district, faced the Zammit Dimech, George Pul- 2003 to 1,539. Puli lost nearly 500 votes on Qormi electorate for the first licino and Michael Frendo. MLP deputy leader Michael this district. time while Puli faced the Sig- On the fifth district, Labour Falzon emerged as the top La- Dalli managed to increase his giewi electorate for the first newcomer and former PN bour candidate in both districts JOHN Dalli who spent the past support despite the changes time. candidate Marlene Pullicino he contested for the first time: four years in the political wil- enacted to this district which With 5,508 votes Lawrence snatched 2,062, getting more 2,853 in the 10th and 3,046 in derness managed to increase retained Qormi but lost Kirkop Gonzi’s lieutenant in the Min- votes than former deputy leader the second. his first count vote on the sixth and Santa Venera, gaining Sig- istry of Finance, , . The other deputy leader district from 3,059 to 3,370. giewi instead. Dalli had the ad- managed to surpass the vote Back in 2003, Vella was the top Charles Mangion did not fare The former Nationalist Min- vantage of previously contest- tally of PN deputy leader Tonio Labour candidate in this district so well coming second to Marie ister and leadership contender ing the seventh district which Borg who got 3,771 votes. with 3,050 votes. Louise Coleiro Preca on the has won even managed to stave included Siggiewi. Results from the 10th district Maverick labour MP Joe Sam- sixth district and surpassed by off competition from Educa- Ninu Zammit, another incum- confirmed MaltaToday’s exit mut, known for his support Karl Chircop and Silvio Parnis tion Minister Louis Galea, who bent minister, only managed to poll which put Robert Arrigo on of the hunting lobby and his on the fourth. polled 1,810 first count votes get 624 votes. Galea and Zam- top of the PN’s list surpassing tough stand on immigration, and backbencher mit, who previously contested incumbent Ministers Francis decreased his vote from 1,937 in [email protected]

Nationalist MP and outgoing environment minister George Pullicino and Labour MP Marie-Louise Coleiro monitoring the counting process. Below: PN deputy leader Tonio Borg

From left to right, clockwise: Tonio Fenech and Michael Gonzi (PN) after news spread of the Nationalist victory. Labour MPs Charles Buhagiar (right) and Noel Farrugia (left). Tenth district candidates Georg Sapiano and outgoing foreign minister Michael Frendo. GILBERT CALLEJA PHOTOGRAPHY BY 8 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 news news Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 9 A lot of hanging around Harry Vassallo – ‘Political in a cliffhanger election legitimacy will be missing from government’

MATTHEW VELLA just indicative. I think it is im- portant we remain prudent till the end. AD will keep doing its democratic duty to follow all ALTERNATTIVA Demokra- the counts. Joe Saliba was very tika chairperson Harry Vassallo prudent during the sampling yesterday said the chances of and in fact he didn’t hint at any- electing a seat on the 10th dis- thing. This electoral win was trict would be marginal, com- declared on indications and as menting on his party’s showing a matter of fact it was not de- which yesterday showed results clared by Gonzi himself. As one close to 1.5%, a better perform- could see, the Nationalist Party ance than last election’s 0.7%. took control in the streets as the “We would have definitely ap- Labour Party did back in 2003 preciated getting more votes. during the Referendum.” However we have certainly in- Vassallo also said the relative creased and this satisfies our majority that the PN clinched party. We shall know how AD yesterday would mean that “po- candidates performed in this litical legitimacy will be missing election only during the last from the party that will form counting,” Vassallo said. the government. The support Vassallo said AD had “suffered that AD has won indeed shows a big campaign” against people that in a coalition this would voting for the Green party. Yes- have guaranteed an absolute terday he said the party would majority. The significance of be staying on to the last count this result is that none of the to see what happens. parties reached the 50 per cent “The result announced by quota. This result was a strong the PN secretary-general are message from the electorate.” Ever hopeful - Arnold Cassola, chairperson Harry Vassallo, and Mario Mallia at the counting hall Edward Living to fight another day CHARLOT ZAHRA metal sheeting and resembling counting staff were buoyant as then, grew bolder and livelier The newcomers to the politi- a huge chicken coop in which the first sample showed a La- by the minute. cal scene, AN, were isolated in JAMES DEBONO tics are feasible for Malta. the huge armadas of the two bour victory, forcing the hand In a separate room adjacent to separate quarters on the other Fenech – ‘AD Despite the Surely the electoral system IT was a day of changing emo- main parties took their rests of party secretary-general Ja- the MLP quarters, there are the side of the voting complex. Un- is partly to blame. Yet with tions at the Naxxar Counting from the tense atmosphere in- son Micallef to declare that AD quarters, which hosts the like the other three parties, AN FOR Alternattiva Demokrati- no third party getting more Hall as witnessed from the side the counting hall. there was a “clear majority” for tiny armada of the Green Party had no counting staff and the ka, any result short of electing disproportion than 2%, it is extremely un- parties’ quarters, which hosts Party agents and candidates Labour. counting staff, as well as AD AN candidates were rather re- is here to stay’ a member of parliament was a likely for the other parties the counting staff of the four were seen chatting animatedly However, the mood among candidates and officials. The laxed, drinking whisky in a lei- major defeat. in funding to change the rules of the political parties. and smoking furiously as the them grew despondent as the atmosphere there was slightly surely manner as they absorbed CHARLOT ZAHRA This was the declared aim of game. The quarters hosting the MLP hours passed by and the tête à next samples showed a slight calmer than in the adjacent their dismal performance at Dr Harry Vassallo who even reflected in Surely AD faced an intense and PN quarters, were hosted tête between the MLP and the PN victory. On the other hand, quarters, with party chairper- the polls. expressed hopes of electing scaremongering campaign next to each other in two sep- PN proceeded during the day. the PN counting staff, who had son Harry Vassallo and secre- ALTHOUGH Alternattiva three or four MPs in all. the number and its leader was even served arate yards, covered with in In the morning, Labour been in a sombre mood until tary general Victor Galea. [email protected] Demokratika (AD) trebled its AD has not even managed to with an arrest warrant two first-count preference votes in surpass its 1996 result when of Azzjoni days before the election. Still the March 8 general election it got 1.7% of the vote, even if this also gave AD a visibility when compared to five years it managed to double its 2003 Nazzjonali disproportionate to its size. ago, it still fell short of electing result and improve on that of In fact AD’s strength derives Early disappointment for Azzjoni Nazzjonali an MP in Parliament. 1998. billboards, AD more from the threat it poses, However, speaking to Mal- AD’s result also shows a rather from its vote count. SABRINA AGIUS taToday, AD’s spokeperson for complete failure to commu- has won the AD’s greatest contribution Finance and the Economy, Ed- nicate with the electorate in to this election was making ward Fenech, was upbeat about Labour oriented areas. AD’s battle for third the environment a central is- EARLY afternoon results for the Green Party’s performance discourse could be too alien sue, as evidenced by the green Azzjoni Nazzjonali yesterday during the general elections. for these voters. This is a ma- proposals in both Labour and dealt the new party a blow as He said: “The results speak jor shortcoming for a party place PN manifestos. At election AN leader Josie Muscat de- out for themselves. What is cer- claiming a nationwide ap- level, its only satisfaction is clared his part had not fared tain is that AD has obtained the Edward Fenech peal. to have pushed the two par- as had been expected. equivalent of a national quota. Yet the silver lining for AD ties below the 50%. No party AN president Charles Atta- With a perfect proportional comes from its results in the can now claim the right to rd said: “Many people prom- system, we would have obtained of AD after the polls, Fenech 9th, 10th and 11th districts – speak for the majority of the ised their second prefer- a seat. said: “I think we have to anaylse the middle class heartlands – electorate. From now on, any ence vote. However the first “I think it is relevant to note this result slowly, not hastily. where AD polled nearly 1,500 government measure op- counts do not reflect this.” that at this stage, none of the What will happen in the next votes. posed by both Labour and AN candidates still tried two main parties obtained 50% few days is important. The fact This is a further indication the continent: the protestant AD will lack the support of a to be serene about the situa- of votes. Therefore whoever that there are around 5,000 to that the Greens have an- reformation, the Enlighten- majority of people. tion. “We were not expecting wins will not have the legiti- 6,000 first-count votes is not chored their roots among the ment, liberalism, socialism In reality, it is thanks to AD to win and neither a 50-50 mity of respresenting half the an insignificant result. I think educated middle class. But and the 1968 student revolu- Malta has its first minority situation. We are being re- electorate. that these people need a clear this risks turning AD into a tion. government since 1971. Sure- alistic. Our party was born “It is a very significant political message as to the future of AD. regional phenomenon, whose On the plus side, Harry Vas- ly, despite the disproportion five months ago,” candidate point that the next goverment, After the general election, an strength lies solely in the af- sallo in the 10th district got in funding reflected in the Paul Salamone said. whoever it is, cannot behave in extraordinary general meeting fluent parts of Malta. the highest vote for any third number of Azzjoni Nazzjona- Azzjoni Nazzjonali deputy a such an arrogant manner as will be held to see what our fu- One has to concede that AD party candidate in a general li billboards, AD has won the leader Anglu Xuereb facing a it behaved in the past.” Fenech ture will be. I think AD is here is a progressive party trying to election since 1971. battle for third place disappointing outcome for his added. to stay,” Fenech concluded. communicate with the masses The election also shows that Perhaps this will give the new party, yesterday Asked by MaltaToday to com- in a country untouched by the AD has failed to convince the Greens the strength to live ment about the political future [email protected] great intellectual currents on electorate that coalition poli- and fight another day. 10 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 news news Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 11 How peace of mind won the day A personal defeat for Sant TAKE those travel bro- ALFRED Sant chures back: has lost his L a w r e n c e gamble to re- Gonzi is not peat Dom Matthew going on Mintoff’s feat Vella holiday. The of winning an Nationalist James election after prime min- Debono losing power ister is here to stay, rising like after a couple a phoenix to victory against of years back and suffering two odds that had the 20-year-old consecutive defeats. The MLP Nationalist government in a has lost because of Sant, and quandary. not despite Sant. Lawrence Gonzi, 54, the man Had the PN lost, it would have who ran one of the most per- done so despite Lawrence Gon- sonalised electoral campaigns zi’s personality but the MLP’s ever, the man who exhorted defeat will be squarely blamed mistrustful voters to trust him on Alfred Sant. It is a major at the helm of a country he said personal defeat for the Labour would not be the same under leader in a contest the PN man- Alfred Sant, has won the gen- aged to change into a presiden- eral elections. tial contest. While the PN in- They said the writing was vested heavily in GonziPN, the on the wall for the Nationalist MLP was shackled by the past government. Since 1987, it had legacy and the baggage of its occupied all spheres of political leader. life bar two unstable years of Survey after survey since Oc- Sant’s short-lived government. tober 2005 showed Alfred Sant In 1998, buoyed by Sant’s pre- as being less popular than Sant. carious rule and the backbench Although elections are not rebellion of former prime beauty contests, personal cha- minister , Eddie risma counts. Fenech Adami won the elector- Sant’s major problem was his ate’s trust once again to take baggage. This included his anti- Malta into the . EU stance, his declaration that But after 2003, it seemed that a the partnership had won, his sense of destiny for the PN had performance as Prime Minister fizzled out: where would this between 1996 and 1998 and his party go with Lawrence Gonzi? U-turns on VAT, party partici- For four years, Lawrence Gon- pation in local councils, and the zi presided over repeated elec- European Union. toral losses at the local council The PN managed to change level. Soon after winning the a parliamentary contest into a ing the agenda to the PN in the when corruption and abuse of days. And the PN’s coalition back to its Mintoffian days, or leadership race against John presidential contest, and La- first three weeks of the cam- power was also an issue. was still welded together by fear to choose a more middle-class Dalli, the PN failed to obtain a bour did not have an affable paign over its proposal for a re- Labour’s campaign was not of Alfred Sant. This stopped a friendly face with the right EU majority in the European Par- And then the turnaround: third term. He has won him- veys has been ongoing for the ties, Gonzi’s victory means and charismatic leader to stand ception class, and with the MLP as slick as that of the PN. The massive haemorrhage to AD. credentials. Labour MEP Joseph liament elections, electing two Gonzi and his parliamentary self a seat in the pantheon of past two years. Even against that Alternattiva Demokratika up to Gonzi. returning with a vengeance in MLP also presented a number In this sense, Sant was the PN’s Muscat perfectly fits the job de- out of five MEPs. Then came secretary Tonio Fenech manage Nationalist gods, and escaped the expectations of his critics, and Azzjoni Nazzjonali were Labour failed to capitalise the last week. of boomerang proposals: like greatest ally to keep the coali- scription. His only problem is the string of losses in the local to bring down a deficit to below the fate of having been – like Gonzi proved that he com- not speaking the language of on the need for change. People Yet the thrust of Labour’s fi- promising to re-open nego- tion united. that he is too young. council elections. His ministers the 3% threshold demanded by – a mands more “peace of mind”, the people. AD failed to strike were asking: “Well, there is the nal charge were corruption al- tiations with the EU over the Deputy leader Michael Fal- we re t he aut ho r s o f q u e s t ion a bl e Maastricht criteria and launch prime minister who never won as his final billboard exhorted the chord it hoped it would to problem of having the same legations directed against Jef- dockyards. The aftermath zon on the other hand starts political decisions and bureau- a budget of tax cuts and in- the election. To the PN, Gonzi to the electorate. Sant just clinch a parliamentary seat, government for 20 years, but is frey Pullicino Orlando and the The PN was also effective in Sant goes down in history at a disadvantage being part of cratic incompetence. Bribery at creased social benefits in 2007, is a superhero who clinched could not be trusted – and the and AN were just a ridiculous the opposition better?” lease of his land in Mistra for demonising Labour’s propos- as the great moderniser who the leadership team. His antics lower levels embarrassed min- as the country wins its place in victory against the expecta- PN’s demonising scare cam- footnote in the entire elec- The problem with Labour was the construction of an open-air als like misrepresenting the changed Old Labour into New also make him unpopular with isters like Jesmond Mugliett the club of eurozone members. tions of even Nationalist sup- paign made sure that message tion. that it promised change with- disco. half-baked reception class idea Labour, ridding the party of middle-class voters. His other and Censu Galea. Gonzi would Despite calls to set an election porters, and proving the 1971 was drummed right into peo- Gonzi’s victory, albeit with out changing its own leader at Labour was certainly more as a repeater class. The PN many its violent and corrupt co-deputy Charles Mangion, be later much criticised for not date as early as September 2007, hypothesis wrong. ple’s heads. This was the con- a wafer-thin majority, signals the right time, after the 2003 convincing on the count of cor- still managed to form a wider elements. Before 1996 he was a more business friendly face accepting Mugliett’s resigna- Gonzi waits until late February In the end, it confirms trast between Gonzi and Sant. the triumph of a man who election. By staying on Sant ruption, but it did not manage coalition than the MLP. The definitely more palatable to the and a political moderate, is also tion. Austin Gatt, the bawdy 2008 to set his date. that the GonziPN brand has It is also clear that despite turned an electoral race into a gave the PN the opportunity to to convince the people on is- PN’s promised tax cuts kept middle classes. He still remains compromised by his present investments minister, scoffed Gonzi’s victory places the PN worked. It confirms MaltaTo- the accusations of corrup- personal supplication for trust say that the MLP was still the sues like job creation where the middle class voters happy. The the redeeming factor in Labour role as deputy leader. at layoffs in the manufacturing leader squarely into the hall of day’s surveys: Gonzi is more tion levelled against the PN, in the safe hands that moulded same party that opposed EU Nationalist Party seemed more MLP’s overtime and surcharge for a small, intellectual Labour Labour now faces the most dif- sector. fame of PN leaders. Against all popular than his own party, he the electorate did not deem the country’s economic turna- membership. convincing. In the local context proposals merely pleased its elite. ficult task: that of re-inventing was under pressure as tourism odds, embarrassed by a Cabi- is trusted by the people more this to be the deal-breaker in round. Did togetherness make Perversely enough, it was La- corruption does not seem to be working class constituency. To But after 1998 he lost that itself after its third consecutive floundered, being described as net of ministers he himself de- than Alfred Sant, and it’s a giving Gonzi the mandate for this victory possible? Gonzi’s bour which dictated the agenda the big issue which sways votes. make matters worse, the party’s part of the population. Now the electoral defeat. It now faces the the least likely person to be fit clares will be changed, Gonzi consistent show of trust which another five years. And as for one-seat majority will show of the pre-electoral campaign The Nationalist Party had only working class constituency still MLP has to choose between a prospect of having been a quar- for the role. won the Nationalists a historic according to MaltaToday’s sur- the onslaught of the third par- us. since the summer of 2007, los- won by 4,000 votes in 1987 remembers the dire 1996-1998 populist who throws Labour ter of a century in opposition.

saw yesterday, the resulting gov- loosening of the government’s lapse of government in August Fenech Adami. election, Prime Minister Gonzi In the hot seat ernment is also condemned to hold over parliament. 1998: the shortest-lived admin- Since taking the helm in 2004, could be more vulnerable to such leading by a single-seat majority. Other, more recent examples istration since 1958. Lawrence Gonzi has occasional- internal dissidence with only one proved less fortunate. After his Ironically, then, the only post- ly struggled to assert his leader- seat keeping him in power. But STABILITY. Such an impor- contest between only two play- catered-for by Maltese law. Last One-seat governments surprise victory in 1996 Alfred independence case of an aborted ship over the party. His decision this time round there is a differ- RAPHAEL VASSALLO tant consideration in Maltese ers. Even in the now-infamous October the PN and MLP got How stable is that? Judging Sant found himself in a similar legislature came about with only to appoint ence. Where before, Lawrence politics. So coveted by a people 1981 election, which technically together and agreed upon a Con- by history, the answer depends scenario until 1998; only in his two parties in parliament, after to the Presidency was widely Gonzi was a replacement PM analyses the which remembers its antithesis produced a minority govern- stitutional amendment which largely on who occupies the hot case, the single seat that guaran- an election in which the only criticised as a token of cronyism; who had yet to prove his mettle only too well. And so central to ment with a majority of seats, would guarantee the majority seat in question. teed his tenure of office was oc- other party registered a negligi- more recently still, Gonzi has in the real arena, today he is the the successful GonziPN cam- there was no questioning the party enough seats to govern… Although relative majorities cupied by none other than Min- ble result. also had to deal with disgruntle- PN leader who defeated Alfred Raphael implication of the paign, which banked mainly on PN’s absolute majority of 51%. even if the extra seats do not are a rarity in Maltese politics, toff himself. ment from prominent National- Sant on the strength of a cam- Vassallo the fear of instability to counter All of which makes yesterday’s represent actual voters, and can single-seat majorities are not. In many respects it was a pit- The GonziPN factor ists outside the inner sanctum… paign based almost exclusively fi rst relative majority both Labour leader Alfred Sant, something of a historic result. conceivably expand the House of Between 1971 and 1976, Min- fall of Sant’s own making. For Today, almost exactly a decade among them, Frank Portelli, Ray on his own persona. His stature and the chance that a third party This is in fact the first time in Representatives to an unwieldy toff led by 33 seats to 32, with- in an unorthodox move, Sant later, it is Lawrence Gonzi who Bondin and AD’s Carmel Cacop- within the party has grown ac- government in 37 would win a seat at the PN’s ex- nearly 40 years that no party has 71 seats in all. Essentially it was out experiencing any noticeable had allowed Mintoff to contest finds himself in the single-seat ardo. cordingly, and despite the un- pense. succeeded in garnering the all- an upgrade of a similar amend- backbencher revolts of the kind the elections on his own pri- majority scenario. At the time But by far the biggest challenge deniable warning shot fired in Looking back on past elections, important 50% +1, with implica- ment made in 1986, specifically he himself engineered 22 years vate manifesto. Inevitably, then, of writing it is not possible to to his authority has come from his direction by the electorate – years, and asks whether a it is not surprising that the vast tions that will certainly have to to avoid a repeat performance of later. And while his adminis- Sant’s economic policies raised make any reliable projections of John Dalli, the Qormi heavy- which reduced the PN’s previous majority would consider a rela- be taken on board once the cel- the 1981 result; and again, the tration was characterised by its the ire of the Old Labour work- how the next parliament will be weight and former Cabinet min- majority by 4% - Gonzi can now single-seat majority is in fact tive majority as a setback to de- ebrations are over. compromise failed to take into fair share of instability – largely horse, and soon after present- composed. But if Gonzi’s four ister who resigned in 2004, after lead the party from a position of mocracy. We are, after all, a quin- But unlike previous years – account the possibility of three on account of his somewhat ag- ing the 1997 budget, he found years as Prime Minister have il- facing what he himself described unparalleled strength. more stable than a coalition tessentially bipartisan country. when a similar result would or more parties electing repre- gressive nationalisation policies, himself facing a one-man revolt. lustrated anything, it is arguably as an orchestrated campaign Surely, then, his weakened hold Ever since 1971, every election have plunged the country into a sentatives to parliament. and his “do or die” way of doing What followed was the lost vote that the PN leader cannot rely on against him from within the over parliament should not pose has produced a single, clear ma- Constitutional crisis – this time The status quo thereby guaran- politics – the resulting tension of confidence in the Cottonera the absolute, unswerving loyalty party. too many difficulties over the jority winner in a closely-fought round the eventuality is well tees single-party rule; but as we was in no way attributable to any project, and the subsequent col- enjoyed by his predecessor Eddie It is conceivable that after this next five years. 12 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 news Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 13 In the counting hall

Scenes of jubilation for Nationalist secretary- general Joe Saliba and MPs Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando and (left to right), and Nationalist supporters are over the moon with joy (centre), while below, a counting agent patiently awaits the counting results. GILBERT CALLEJA PHOTOGRAPHY BY 14 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 opinion Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 15 The winner takes all

es, my friends, I will look at every one of the electorate that did not vote the winner takes promise he has made for the PN. it all. But before and I will be there to I have worked with Gonzi’s boys, and YI continue, I should say see that it happens. I have found them to be overly partisan that it is completely un- And when it does not and as territorial as they come. acceptable that the final happen I will not be I have listened to them when they result is not announced content with a simple talked about those people who disagree by the electoral com- smile, or a smirk, or Charisma and with their politics or those people who mission but by Joe an inexcusable excuse. cannot stand them. They sound like Saliba. Why does a I will be there to ask personality do not fervent Catholics talking about Hugue- political party have this the question again and “ nots before the massacre. privilege? again. move mountains, I will be humbled if I encounter a But even if Joe Saliba Saviour And why should I do magnanimous Gonzi. But I see a party wants to take over the this? Because, when a nor do they in government that will take solace role of the electoral Balzan political party enters from the fact that it has won again and commission, was it wise its fifth decade in gov- trim political a party that will push its political leader for the Labour party to [email protected] ernment it must surely to return to his old ways. Ways which continue stating that know that the free include refusing to accept the politi- one should wait for the press will not greet it arrogance, cal responsibility of politicians when last count vote? with flowers. others under their captaincy err or are So now back to the vitriol. The GonziPN gamble has worked intolerance and corrupt. I am very pleased for myself that the wonders. It has proved beyond doubt There are more pressing issues: the Nationalist Party has won. It gives me that Lawrence Gonzi’s charisma and nepotism social reforms relating to co-habitation, good reason to justify all the things personality can be a winner. But divorce and gay rights or recognition that I have written in the last four years charisma and personality do not move will not be addressed in the next five and what’s more, the reams of opinions mountains, nor do they trim political years. Because these issues will irritate and news stories that I will write in the arrogance, intolerance and nepotism. It the core vote of the PN and serve to tilt next five years. If anyone thinks that wins elections, yes but... the very delicate balance of power. And I am going away, please note that the Gonzi was aided by an overwhelm- because they are not in the Gonzi gift only reason I will go away is if the good ing friendly media, an accommodating cart. Lord decides to pull me out to the other TVM and a plethora of opinion writers If any opinion writer complains about world. who treated him with kid gloves. But it these issues, please be so kind to refer And apologies for having lowered the was an uphill battle with others, which them to their voting preference please. tone in the last weeks, I promise to get he tackled rather effectively. In 2013, Malta will not have divorce back to my old nasty self in the near The next five years will be an interest- or co-habitation, because Gonzi does future. ing five years. They will see the trans- not consider them to be on his agenda. There is one thing I will promise our formation of the Labour Party – I hope. England introduced divorce in 1530; in readers: if I planned to be a thorn in It will serve to stop the PN from refer- 1530 we were still burning witches. Alfred Sant’s backside if he had been ring to what happened before 1987 or in The same thinking applies to electoral elected, then I can assure you that I will 1981. Because in 2013 it will be 25 years reform. be an Ethiopian red pepper for Gonzi. on. And 25 years ago there was the Ber- Even though the PN knows that it was For the role of the free press is not to lin Wall, internet had not been created, AD that nearly lost their chance in this be on the side of the establishment, but the mobile was unknown, gays were election, they will prefer to launch yet to question it. called poufs and most people thought another frenzied attack on any small If anyone expects the media that I edit that Adam and Eve really existed. party before an election instead of to talk about the positive aspects of this In 2013, the game plan will be very reforming electoral law. government then all one need to do is different and I will be damned if anyone Take it from me, Gonzi will do noth- to tune in to Bondiplus, Xarabank or continues to argue that we need an- ing to bring about electoral reform or dive into The Independent or The Sun- other five years of Gonzi. party financing. If he does, I will eat day Times or better still, to In-Nazzjon. It is hoped that the Labour Party will humble pie and cut my little finger. The And then for some really exciting portal not go for any of the present deputy future of the small parties is indeed in a news, take a di-ve.com. leaders. I for one, unlike the PN – who precarious state. This newspaper is not for selling its chose not to criticise – will be up in In the end, the best policy is to form soul. And if the advertising stops, no arms if Michael Falzon even attempts a lobby group, dress up and squeak like problem, we will put up the price and to put his name to the leadership can- Astrid Vella and needless to say the we will still sell copies to our thirsty didature. impact on politicians and their antics readers. For the good of the country, for the will be far greater. We will continue saying it as it is. future of democracy we need a strong Well, well done Lawrence Gonzi, I Gonzi just made it, I am happy that and viable opposition. I only see three wish you well. he made it with such a small majority to four people who can fit the role of I also hope you will take me for what I it gives him the opportunity to know leader: it should be either Evarist Bar- am... an Ethiopian red pepper! what tightrope walking is all about. I tolo, or Gavin Gulia. will be there to see how he will imple- And for deputy leader they should ment his new government. Will he ap- go for a John Prescott: a Toni Abela, a point Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando as min- fighter and grassroots man. ister? Will he dump Jesmond Mugliett Alfred Sant should be allowed to step and Tony Abela? If he does not I will be down with dignity. He lost but he was a the first to parachute into his first press participant in the electoral game and he conference to ask why not. should be respected for that. And to prove how sophisticated our The hollow and cruel remarks by electorate turns out to be, JPO gets until yes- hundreds of votes instead of being terday night are typical of a uptight dumped. woman who has made it her mission Gonzi had the campaign going for to write hate talk about a man she has him. It was smooth… until, that is, terrorised for all these years. some crap from Labour started hitting There will be many people who will the fan. In the end, as I said before, the welcome Gonzi; the former chairman, issue of corruption does not tantalise the political appointees, the blue-eyed the Maltese. We are Catholics, but we boys, the ambassadors, the firms who are sort of flexible Catholics and cor- ate into direct orders, the candidates ruption does not moves pyramids when waiting for their piece of the cake, the it comes to the Maltese way of voting. companies that repeatedly get all the Gonzi has a tall order: he has come cake and the recipients of government out with a grand gift cart that is so sponsors and donations. They are not big that he will need a regiment of St few but they are always around at every Nicholases to deliver the goods. His election fighting like cornered gladia- tax cuts are so extensive that I wonder tors for their life. which accountant he asked for the fiscal Gonzi is being manifestly asked to advice. open up his hands and embrace change I will be there to see that he delivers. and altruism and to value the 50% plus 16 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 news news Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 17

St Paul’s Bay Mayor Paul Bugeja grabbing a counting assistant’s attention

Toast of the election? Nationalist MP Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando is hugged by Remigio Bartolo DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5 DISTRICT 6 Valletta; Floriana; Ħamrun; Pieta’; Birgu; Isla; Bormla; Żabbar; ; Zejtun; Marsaskala ; Għaxaq; part of Marsa; Birżebbuġa; Kirkop; Marsaxlokk; part of Marsa; part of St Venera Kalkara; Xgħajra Qormi; Luqa; Siġġiewi Paola; Santa Luċija; Mqabba; Qrendi; Safi; Żurrieq

Registered voters 24,574 Registered voters: 23,361 Registered voters 23,933 Registered voters 24,253 Registered voters 23,548 Registered voters 24,204 Quota ______Invalid votes______Quota ______Invalid votes______Quota ______Invalid votes______Quota ______Invalid votes______Quota ______Invalid votes______Quota ______Invalid votes______Votes cast ______Valid votes______Votes cast ______Valid votes______Votes cast ______Valid votes______Votes cast ______Valid votes______Votes cast ______Valid votes______Votes cast ______Valid votes______COUNT COUNT COUNT COUNT COUNT Alpha: Liberali Demokratiku COUNT Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Bezzina Emanuel (Emmy) Cacopardo Carmel Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Fenech Edward Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Fenech Edward ______143 Mizzi Christian ______182 Attard Patrick______224 Mallia Mario ______172 Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Cutajar Pierre (Gaspare Pierre) Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Fenech Edward Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Muscat Joseph (Josie) Attard Carmel (Charles) ______91 Seychell Malcolm ______86 Mercieca Anthony (Tonio)______96 Azzjoni Nazzjoni (AN) Cutajar Pierre (Gaspare Pierre) ______14 Zammit Kenneth Muscat Joseph (Josie) ______115 Malta Labour Party (MLP) Salamone Paul Malta Labour Party (MLP) Malta Labour Party (MLP) Zammit Kenneth ______17 Malta Labour Party (MLP) Coleiro Preca Marie Louise______5490 Bonnici Owen______544 Farrugia Joseph ______821 Forza Malta Abela Carmelo Galdes Roderick ______1634 Brincat Joseph ______164 Farrugia Migneco Ancel ______264 Pace John Malta Labour Party (MLP) Abela Joseph Gulia Gavin ______290 Cauchi Gino ______560 Izzi Savona Silvio ______551 Abela Carmelo ______544 Agius Christopher (Chris) Mangion Carmelo (Charles) ______3845 Chircop Karl Joseph ______4377 Micallef Edric ______389 Malta Labour Party (MLP) Agius Christopher (Chris) ______1500 Bonnici Owen Muscat Sebastian (Bastjan) ______65 Mangion Carmelo (Charles) ______2411 Pullicino Marlene ______2062 Bencini Leon (Leo) Bountempo Stefan Carlo (Stefan) ______2007 Buontempo Stefano Carlo (Stefan) Schembri Saviour (Silvio) ______766 Brincat Joseph Muscat Sebastion (Bastjan) ______49 Sammut Joseph Mario (Joe)______1539 Dalli Helena ______2332 Buttigieg Ivan Vlladimir Busuttil Luciano Parnis Saviour (Silvio) ______4889 Vella George ______1513 Falzon Michael Dalli Helena Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Buttigieg John Sammut Joseph Mario (Joe) ______511 Vella Karmenu ______4911 Law Rita Grech Etienne Dalli John ______3370 Debono Grech Joseph (Joe) Zammit Anthony ______1515 Mifsud Duncan Law Rita Galea Louis ______1810 Herrera Jose’ Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Mizzi Joseph (Joe) Marmara Darren Micallef Peter ______1152 Micallef Stafrace Simon Azzopardi Jason ______3321 Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Vella Bonnici Joseph (Joe) Mizzi Joseph (Joe) Musumeci Robert ______875 Sant Alfred Bonavia Lawrence ______253 Chetcuti Janice ______422 Vella George Puli Clyde Michael ______2383 Galea Caroline ______411 D’Amato Helen ______1433 Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Zammit Anthony (Ninu) ______624 Mugliett Jesmond Debono Franco Borg Olivier Paul Agius Francis (Frans) Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Scerri Victor George Galea Emanuel (Noel) Cardona Gatt Josianne Gonzi Lawrence Agius Francis (Frans) Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: Schembri John (Ivan) Galea Louis Demarco Mario Mifsud Bonnici Carmelo Bonello John Schembri John (Ivan) Dingli Alexiei Spiteri Stephen Chetcuti Janice Candidates Elected Farrugia Jean Pierre Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: Zammit Anthony (Ninu) Debono Franco 1 ______Gatt Agostino Pio (Austin) Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: Galea Mario 2 ______Mifsud Malcolm Candidates Elected Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: 3 ______Mifsud Bonnici Paula Mifsud Bonnici Carmelo 1 ______Candidates Elected 4 ______Torpiano Edward 2 ______Candidates Elected 1 ______Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: 5 ______3 ______1 ______2 ______Candidates Elected Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: 4 ______2 ______3 ______1 ______5 ______3 ______Candidates Elected 4 ______2 ______4 ______1 ______5 ______3 ______5 ______2 ______4 ______3 ______5 ______4 ______5 ______18 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 news news Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 19 DISTRICT 10 DISTRICT 11 DISTRICT 12

Pembroke; San Ġiljan; Sliema; Gżira Mosta; Mdina; Attard; Balzan Mellieħa; San Pawl il-Baħar; Naxxar

Registered voters 24,006 Registered voters 24,705 Registered voters 23,976

Quota ______Invalid votes______Quota ______Invalid votes______Quota ______Invalid votes______

Votes cast ______Valid votes______Votes cast ______Valid votes______Votes cast ______Valid votes______COUNT COUNT COUNT Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Vassallo Henry (Harry) ______524 Cacopardo Carmel ______315 Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Cassar Ralph ______172 Attard Patrick ______59 Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Cassola Arnold ______282 Bartolo Anthony (Tonio) ______42 Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Beattie Philip ______57 Bartolo Anthony (Antonio) ______28 Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Xuereb Angelo (Anglu) ______118 Salomone Paul ______36 Malta Labour Party (MLP) Xuereb Angelo (Anglu) ______108 Bartolo Evarist ______1738 Imperium Europa Bonett Christian Paul ______252 Lowell Norman ______48 Imperium Europa Brincat Leo Maria (Leo) ______461 Lowell Norman ______36 Cauchi Gino ______198 Malta Labour Party (MLP) Cuschieri Joseph ______921 Agius Decelis Anthony ______3004 Debono Martin ______396 Buhagiar Carmelo (Charles) ______1708 Malta Labour Party (MLP) Falzon Michael ______2853 Farrugia Angelo (Anglu) ______2198 Bartolo Evarist ______3066 Labour MPs Helena Dalli and Joe Mizzi (foreground) Vassallo Adrian Farrugia Michael ______790 Farrugia Angelo (Anglu) ______1216 Sammut Joseph (Joe) ______508 Farrugia Emanuel (Noel) ______345 Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Farrugia Michael ______2131 Arrigo Robert Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Grima Alfred ______354 DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 8 DISTRICT 9 Borg Olivier Paul Agius David Sammut Joseph (Joe) ______692 Cristina Dolores Asciak Michael E. Żebbuġ (Malta); Dingli; Mġarr; Msida; Għargħur; San Ġwann; Spiteri Kenneth ______237 Birkirkara; Lija; part of St Venera; Iklin Dalli John Bonnici Charlo Vassallo Lorna ______355 Mtarfa; Rabat Ta’ Xbiex; Swieqi Falzon Joseph Borg Anthony (Tonio)

Felice Donald Carmel Cassar Joseph (Joe) Registered voters 24,168 Registered voters 23,831 Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Registered voters 24,607 Frendo Michael Castaldi Paris Ian Galea Franco Deguara Louis Abela Anthony (Tony) ______432 Quota ______Invalid votes______Quota ______Invalid votes______Gouder Karl Farrugia Shirley Cutajar Robert ______1694 Quota ______Invalid votes______Psaila Philip (Pippo) Galea Vincent (Censu) Deguara Louis Votes cast ______Valid votes______Votes cast ______Valid votes______Pullicino George Gonzi Michael Fenech Antonio (Tonio) Votes cast ______Valid votes______Zammit Dimech Francis Pullicino Jeffrey Fenech Martin COUNT Scerri Victor George COUNT Galea Vincent (Censu) COUNT Alpha: Liberali Demokratiku Indipendenti Vassallo Edwin Gonzi Michael Bezzina Emanuel (Emmy) ______12 Cauchi James Shaun Zammit Montebello John Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Mallia Mario ______75 Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: Cassar Ralph ______244 Vassallo Henry (Harry) ______313 Cassola Arnold ______457 Candidates Elected Candidates Elected Candidates Elected 1 ______Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) 1 ______1 ______Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Beattie Philip 2 ______Attard Carmel (Charles) ______120 2 ______2 ______Seychell Malcolm ______85 Mercieca Anthony (Tonio) 3 ______3 ______3 ______4 ______4 ______4 ______Malta Labour Party (MLP) Malta Labour Party (MLP) Malta Labour Party (MLP) 5 ______5 ______5 ______Agius Decelis Anthony ______648 Bugeja Anthony (Twanny) ______114 Abela Emanuel (Leli) Brincat Leo Maria (Leo) Azzopardi Charles ______874 Buttigieg John ______22 Buhagiar Carmelo (Charles) ______2064 Calamatta Narcissus (Narcy) Cardona Christian (Chris) ______862 Cuschieri Joseph DISTRICT 13 Farrugia Emanuel (Noel) ______3060 Cassar Clyde Joe Paul ______25 Debono Martin Gulia Gavin ______2203 Debono Grech Joseph (Joe) ______984 Saliba Simon Pullicino Marlene ______355 Sant Alfred ______7060 Sciberras Alexander (Alex) Gozo, Comino Vassallo Adrian Vassallo Lorna ______85 Zammit-Lewis Edward ______191 Zammit Anthony Registered voters 26,191 Partit Nazzjonalista (PN)

Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Arrigo Robert Quota ______Invalid votes______Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Asciak Michael E. ______564 Cristina Dolores Abela Anthony (Tony) Borg Anthony (Tonio) ______3371 Falzon Joseph Agius David Cardona Gatt Josianne ______160 Felice Donald Carmel Votes cast ______Valid votes Agius Emanuel (Leli) Frendo Michael Castaldi Paris Ian ______317 COUNT Azzopardi Jacqueline Galea Franco COUNT Fenech Antonio (Tonio) ______5508 Gonzi Lawrence Cassar Joseph (Joe) Fenech Martin Gouder Karl Alternattiva Demokratika (AD Partit Nazzjonalista (PN) Farrugia Galea Joan Ann (Joanne) Fenech Adami Joseph (Beppe) Muscat Noel Galea Victor ______262 Azzopardi Frederick ______1568 Buttigieg Paul ______734 Mifsud Philip Schembri Giorgio Mario Psaila Philip (Pippo) Musumeci Robert Pullicino George Azzjoni Nazzjonali (AN) Debono Giovanna Portelli Marthese Pullicino Jeffrey Rizzo Naudi John Mary Gauci Mary ______112 Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: Sapiano Georg Said Christopher (Chris) Vassallo David Selvaggi Charles Gozitan Party Tabone Manuel Vassallo Edwin Candidates Elected Zammit Dimech Francis Zammit Victor ______37 Tabone Robert (Roberto) 1 ______Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: 2 ______Indipendenti Malta Labour Party (MLP) Cauchi James Shaun Attard Anthony ______208 3 ______Candidates Elected Candidates Elected Caruana Justyne ______3218 4 ______Non Transferable Votes TOTAL: 1 ______1 ______Cordina Joseph (Joe) ______1517 5 ______Refalo Anthony (Anton) ______4599 2 ______2 ______Candidates Elected Vella Monica ______548 3 ______3 ______1 ______Zammit George ______144 4 ______4 ______2 ______5 ______5 ______3 ______4 ______5 ______20 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 editorial news Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 21 How to celebrate, even if a loser THERESE DEBONO

Early morning jubilation for Labour supporters was short-lived yesterday (left) with PN supporters soon gathering outside the Stamperija (right) and the atmosphere outside the Centru Nazzjonali Laburista turning quiet. PHOTOGRAPHY BY

FRANICA PULIS endum they celebrated as well. club which by now was crowded They do it so they don’t die.” with Nationalists, still less then Another Nationalist said, “You the Labourites. can’t say. They haven’t even In Pietà, near the PN head- BY 11.30am yesterday, cars started counting.” quarters, the story was com- adorned with MLP handker- By 12.41pm Zejtun was cel- pletely different by 4pm. There chiefs and horns were already ebrating on a larger scale in the were nine kiosks selling junk seen on the roads from San square, where the MLP club is food and drinks. There were Gwann to Marsa to Fgura. also near the church. The square another two stalls selling PN Fgura’s Labourite club was jam- was filled with four different shirts and key chains with Gon- packed with people dressed in large flags including a hand- zi’s and Fenech Adami’s faces. red flags and other typical party made one with “Zejtun Fortizza Benny from the couple Benny paraphernalia. Laburista” written on it. & Sonia was trying to sell some In Zabbar the celebrations One could hear some Labour- of their Country CDs further up were even louder. From Labour ite women discussing. “It’s not the road too. Road one could hear The Only official. In Sliema they are cel- By 5pm the Nationalists in the Way is Up and of one of Mary ebrating,” shouted a woman street felt sure they had won. Spiteri’s songs in the back- holding the hand of a chubby They were jumping and shout- ground. As one got nearer the girl dressed in an MLP T-shirt. ing “Ghax ghandna ’l Gonzi Editorial MLP club, petards (murtali) Another woman replied, “In the maghna, ahna maghqdudin…” MALTATODAY, MEDIATODAY LTD, VJAL IR-RIHAN, SAN GWANN SGN 9016 • MANAGING DIRECTOR: ROGER de GIORGIO • MANAGING EDITOR: SAVIOUR BALZAN • ACTING EDITOR: MATTHEW VELLA and squibs (suffarrelli) could be last elections we did the same and booing when seeing Michael Tel: (356) 21 382741-3, 21 382745-6 • Fax: (356) 21 385075 • Website: www.maltatoday.com.mt • E-mail: [email protected] heard accompanying the MLP then the PN won.” Falzon on screen. song full blast, giving a feeling By 12.45pm the Labourites At 5.45pm when Joe Saliba of the Zabbar feast’s celebra- were sure they won because of appeared on screen, the crowd tions on the day of the bicycle what Jason Micallef said on TV gathered in front of it and fell pilgrimage. and from the gleaming faces silent, including the horns. “They already know. There are they had. When he announced by 9pm many discussions on TV going The PN club of Zejtun is situ- they should have some concrete After this photofinish: Rise to the occasion on. Even if you look at the faces ated in a side street. By that answers, the crowd cried ‘Ehh’ you would know,” said one La- time there were only six people together with disappointment. bourite, who was discussing the inside with disconcerted looks “Three hours of torture,” THE Nationalist Party, after over 20 One thing is clear: the people have from that achieved by the National- electoral programmes of the other election with a group of men in on their faces. Their only reply sighed one Nationalist. years in government (since 1987), has spoken. They have endorsed the ist party in 2003; this result must not parties. It may wish to consider im- the street. was, “You have to wait.” By 6pm not a soul could be pulled off a narrow yet remarkable policies of the ruling party; but the be allowed to degenerate into a situ- plementing a few of the other party Another, Carmelo Schembri, By 2pm the tide had turned. seen near Mile End. electoral victory winning by a rela- people also sent a message to the Na- ation whereby half the population proposals, especially in the social added: “I was watching Prof. Ed- Near the Msida Labour club tive majority of just 1,200 votes. tionalist Party by reducing its major- feels disenfranchised and out of the field and in that of the environment; ward Scicluna on TV. They (the people were starting looking It is a first for Malta, reminiscent ity. There is much change fine tuning political loop, as this can only have as well as the fight against corrup- PN) lost 15,000 votes. So both worried. Carmelo Cuschieri, of the Florida result in the 2000 and soul searching to be done. ripple effects on the national mood tion and in norms of accountability parties are equal. Even though who was on the phone saying American national election. The re- The PN must take stock of this pro- and future well being of the country. and transparency. there were less votes, MLP got what he had just heard, com- sult is also a personal endorsement test and respond accordingly. It is up to the PM to rise to the occa- These are all part and parcel of the more votes. With the first 9,000 mented, “At 10.30am they told for Lawrence Gonzi, who fought and It is a different ball game now, and sion and act like a statesman to unite European way of doing politics and votes, we would know who the us Labour was on top. Now they won this election single-handedly in the closeness of the vote calls for a the country after this narrowest of in this – our first election since EU Government would be. At the are phoning at the headquarters view of the strategic decision to fight truly different way of doing poli- victories. membership – government should moment they cannot give exact and they are saying that most a presidential-style campaign. Po- tics. Political conclusions should be The result also has consequences on consider acting boldly. indications. probably the PN is winning. litically this was a dangerous gamble, drawn from this narrowest of victo- the Labour party and its leadership. This unthinkable result is conclu- “It depends on the indications. Five minutes later at the PN which effectively saw the leader of ries. First and foremost this should Surely it marks the close of the chap- sive proof of the need to reform our Even I am not sure. Last time we club one could hear repetitively the Nationalist party placing his job encourage Gonzi to act nationally ter of Dr Sant as leader. The MLP, too, electoral law with the full implica- were out here and we thought ‘not to hurry and keep calm’. Ste- on the line. In the end, it paid off. and to do away once and for all with needs to undertake a soul-searching tion of covering all wasted votes with we had won but all of a sudden fan Grech, who was in the club, But this election result also leaves the culture of winner takes all, which process and certainly to put into mo- the insertion of a threshold clause, they told us to close the club said: “The first sample was too us with a fractured country, split di- has permeated our political sys- tion the process to change its leader, which gives a fighting chance to all and people started gathering close to call. Considering the rectly down the middle, with an in- tem where traditionally the winner after his third consecutive electoral small parties to gain representation near the PN club.” districts, it was in our favour, creasing number of disenfranchised picked up all the spoils and totally defeat. in parliament. By way of contrast, the PN much more than expected.” citizens. The neck-and-neck sce- ignored the opposition. Accordingly, It must also revisit its policies to see This result also calls into question club, which is close to the par- By 2.42pm in Zejtun every- nario, fought down to the wire, was appointments should be offered also which needs to be fine-tuned, ad- our method of counting votes. Surely ish church, was very sober with thing had died. No more car- a photo finish if there ever was one. to persons with different political justed or indeed changed altogether. the absurdity of waiting 10 hours to no flags, billboards or candidate cades. No more horns. Two It also exposed a number of our na- leanings. It has to ask itself why the electorate get the result should galvanise the photos. No celebrations were flags less. All that was left were tional idiosyncrasies, and calls for Dr Gonzi should take note of this has opted to keep it in opposition for parties to agree to have an electoral going on and only a few peo- people with worried looks. The political analysis of the implications close result and break with tradition nearly quarter of a century. process that lends itself to a more ple were inside. One could see PN club was still empty. In of the closeness of the vote. once and for all by emulating French In the national interest, we expect open democracy and a faster more the worry on their faces. Even Zabbar, 15 minutes later, the In a little way, the election result President Nicolas Sarkozy (in more that, while the winning party imple- effective counting system. if when asked to comment on Labour club had closed doors also vindicates our much-maligned than just mimicry of his electoral ments its electoral programme which Reforming the electoral system and what they thought about the with hundreds of people still in surveys, which have always showed slogan). He must appreciate that his has been endorsed by the people, it process should be at the top of the celebrations going on a few me- the street. Eight police officers very clear electoral trends. majority has been watered down also considers taking a leaf out of the agenda for Dr Gonzi. tres away, they answered coolly: were in between both clubs and “They always do it. In the refer- another four were near the PN 22 election special | Monday 10 March 2008 news Monday 10 March 2008 | election special 23 Solutions to last issue’s Election babies for Justyne puzzles Caruana and Owen Bonnici Sudoku LABOUR MP Justyne Carua- election day, was at the count- na and MLP candidate Owen ing hall yesterday. In comments Bonnici both became proud to MaltaToday Bonnici says his parents of “election babies” as wife went to vote with the drip their electoral campaigns were stuck to her hand. marked by the birth of their two “In one way it was good that first-born. my wife gave birth yesterday be- Gozitan MP Justyne Caruana cause it relieved the tension of gave birth for the first time mid- the election,” Bonnici says. The campaign to a girl Josephine. young candidate had a baby girl, Labour candidate Owen Bon- which they named Emma Vic- nici, who became a father on toria. Justyne Caruana Owen Bonnici Crossword Billboards out

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1. Nxh7+ Ke8 2. Qb5+ Qd7 3. Qxd7# ALL the Malta Labour Party al aftermath of electoral re- and the Nationalist Party bill- sults. boards were removed from On Sunday morning, whoev- 2. ... Qc6 the Maltese roads between er drove around the Maltese 3. Qxc6# Saturday and Sunday. roads might have noticed that The billboards, an essential there were no Gonzi or Sant part of the parties electoral faces on billboards. Azzjoni Today’s Weather campaign, were removed not Nazzjonali and Alternattiva to risk any damages from Demokratika billboards were rowdy supporters in the usu- the only ones left to be seen. Traditional counting methods in election

TRADITIONAL counting methods were the norm yes- terday for the two main po- litical parties, which employ runners and vote counters to MOSTLY CLOUDY monitor the voting process behind the perspex barrier. 17ºC / 10 ºC The party’s counters are UV INDEX: 4 placed behind the electoral commission’s vote counters to jot down each first preference vote for either the Nationalist WARNINGS: Nil Party, the Labour Party, and other parties on their count- WEATHER: Partly to rather ing tickets. Counters jot down cloudy. the first 50 first-preference votes on tickets which they VISIBILITY: Moderate to good. hand to runners, who in turn take the tickets back to the WIND: Light to moderate party’s control room. Southerly (force 3 to The tickets are used to ex- 4). trapolate what is now consid- SEA: Low Northwest. ered to be a clear indication of who the winner of the election will be. The system is based on a sample of 50 ballot sheets across the country. the PN employed hand-held inputted the result straight from each ballot box from During the 2003 referendum, PDAs for each counter, who into a central system. election special | Monday 10 March 2008 Thousands gather for Nationalist ‘party’

DAVID DARMANIN

ONLY minutes after PN sec- retary-general Joe Saliba’s an- nouncement of victory, thou- sands of Nationalist supporters flocked around the newly-built Nationalist headquarters block in Pietà, where fast-food kiosks and pumping music reminis- cent of the 1998 and 2003 elec- tions greeted them. While the crowd cheered at updates shown on a big screen placed by the head quarter’s imposing entrance, others gathered by the side entrance to discuss their analysis of the campaign, the wafer-thin ma- jority by which PN won and other similar issues. “He should take good care of people now,” a man said, clearly referring to PM Lawrence Gon- zi, “because the middle class was my greatest fear, and that sector is the helm of the country.” As the traffic in Pietà prompt- ed a spontaneous carcade, all sorts of comical slogans were being sung to the amusement of celebrating parties of pedes- trians. “We are the lions… La- bour’s lions fled”, one of them cried. In another car, a group of friends were humorously sing- ing “Viva l-Labour”, while an- other stuck his head out of a car, saying: “Fredu repeater.” In Balluta, the crowds were even more packed, and the music was louder. On the DJ decks set up on a makeshift stage, deejays cheekily said into the micro- phones “Where are the lions? Where are the lions? They’ve gone back to the jungle.” The ones less interested in music were happily walking by the front, most of them sport- ing blue clothes and Heineken bottles. “Of course I voted AD in the past, but as if I would vote for them in these elections,” one was overheard telling another.