election special ELECTIONS

dayS12 to go Harry’s ‘silent revolution’ - PG 8 mIssue 1 • MONDAY,alta 25 FEBRUARY 2008 • www.tmaodayltatoday.com.mt PRICE €0.50 / Lm0.21 HYPE SUNDAY Leaders stir up thousands at mass rallies with tried and tested slogans, but say nothing new

GONZI in – pgs 6,7 SANT in – pgs 10,11

NATIONALISTS mt SURVEY SHOCKING! JOSIE’S ‘ENEMIES SQUARELY BEAT MLP OF THE STATE’ ON ENVIRONMENT pg 3 3 SPEECH pg 9 3

159, Labour Avenue, Naxxar Tel: 2388 0088, 7939 2939 paper post News 4 maltatoday2 maltatoday election special election | special Monday | 25Monday February 25 February2008 2008 newsnews maltatodaynews survey Monday 25Monday February 25 February2008 | maltatoday 2008 | maltatoday election special election 3 special 5 PN squarely beats Labour Labour on environmental issues MLP shows the party’s failure to ronmental policies to those of the ties. capitalise on discontentment cre- rival two parties, only 2.6% would Yet significantly, 44% of those 18% think AD has best ated by the onslaught of develop- vote for the Greens in the forth- who prefer AD’s environmental ment over the past years. coming election. In fact 42.8% of policies are either undecided or ‘poor’ policy on environment the MLP’s manifesto also sends those who think that AD has the refuse to divulge their voting in- contradictory messages on the best environmental policies are tentions in the next elections. High on the hug - PN leader Lawrence James environment, with the party still equally split between the PN and this could be an indication that Gonzi makes his entrance in bormla with Debono supporting the development of MLP. Only 11% of these would the battle for the green vote is still a round of hugs from his voters golf courses and a yacht marina vote for AD. raging and that some potential MALtAtODAY’s ongoing elec- Ulysses Lodge in Ramla l-Hamra in Gozo and refraining from tak- this is an indication that the en- green voters are still undecided toral survey has revealed that and the extension of development ing a commitment to reverse the vironment is not such a primary whether to follow their instincts on while 39% think the Nationalist zones, the PN retains a significant extension of development zones. concern for these voters who are or to choose the lesser evil be- Party has the best environmental lead on this issue. the party’s ambivalent stand on swayed to vote for the other par- tween the big parties. policy, only 23% think likewise on the survey comes in the wake hunting could also dent the par- the . 18% say Alter- of ’s promise ty’s green image. And kisses too - zealousness turns nattiva Demokratika has the best to redress the country’s “envi- Even MLP voters show a degree which party has the best Voting preference for those into affection as Lawrence Gonzi environmental policy. ronmental deficit” by taking the of scepticism on their part y’s envi- policies on the environment? (%) who believe AD has best green takes his seat But among those aged between Environment and Planning ronmental policy: a third of MLP policies (%) education, 18 and 34, AD is judged to have a Authority into his own hands if voters refrain from expressing a pn 38.7 pn 21.4 better environmental policy than elected back to power. It corre- preference for their own party’s MLp 22.8 MLp 21.4 the more established Malta La- sponds with the importance given policy, with 10% opting for AD AD 18.4 AD 11.4 bour Party. to sustainable development in the as the party with the best policy An 1.5 An 0 this shows that although overall PN’s electoral programme. on the environment, 2.4% opting none 3.9 not voting 1.4 the PN is deemed to have the best the survey indicates that the for the PN and 21% expressing no Don’t know 14.6 Don’t know 30.7 environmental policies, a political PN’s strategy of backtracking preference at all. no reply 0.1 no reply 13.6 says Gonzi force like AD which is still aspir- from controversial development the survey result also reflects ing to enter parliament is deemed like the Xaghra l-Hamra golf AD’s historic role in raising the By age groups (%) to have the best environmental course and the Ramla l-Hamra profile of environmental issues pn MLp AD An none Don’t know no reply

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT CALLEJA policy by a fifth of the Maltese development coupled with meas- and its consistent opposition to 18-34 39.9 14.4 26.1 1.3 2.6 15.7 0 population. ures to control the construction spring hunting, golf courses and 35-54 32.5 24.2 19.7 1.4 4.6 17.7 0 this emerges from a survey industry have helped to restore mega development. 55+ 43.9 27.8 7.8 1.3 4 14.9 0.3 “they are trying to hang on of choosing on conducted among 900 respond- the party’s green credentials. th is is especia l ly the case among MATTHeW VeLLA ents held last week. still, while 39% prefer the PN’s younger voters aged between what Lord Adonis has claimed education. “this Methodology in a study on the reception is not question a recollectionpage 4 of the clashes college in Qormi, with Gonzi surprisingly, after a turbulent green policies, 43% prefer the 18 and 34. Among this category The survey was held between Monday 18 and Thursday 21 February. A total of PRIME Minister Lawrence class when Labour’s proposal of being Labour or National- between the Labour govern- announcing a new school to be five years which saw the Gonzi- policies of the other three oppo- while 26% express a preference 1,638 respondents were randomly selected from the telephone directory with Gonzi yesterday laid emphasis is nothing like what is being ist. the question is whether ment and university students, built in Verdala, Cospicua. He led administration clashing with sition parties. But only 23% deem for AD’s environmental policies 900 accepting to be interview. The survey was stopped as soon as the 900 once again on Labour’s pro- done in the UK. And it’s us, you want a government that Gonzi paid tribute to foreign also said a new PN government environmentalists on major is- the MLP’s environmental policies only 14.4% express a preference quota target was reached. The survey results were weighed according to the sues like the Xaghra l-Hamra as the best. for the MLP’s policies. age and sex distribution of the population in the 2006 demographic review. The posal to introduce an extra the Nationalist Party, which will have your children repeat minister Michael Frendo, a wanted cruise liners berthing survey has a margin of error of +/-3.26%. ‘reception’ class for kindergar- has uncovered this decep- a year in their education. And protagonist of those days as a at senglea alongside berths golf course, the redevelopment of the poor result achieved by the But while 18% prefer AD’s envi- ten children, denouncing it as tion.” it would be a big loss and a university student. “Labour’s currently used by the dock- a repeater year. Gonzi said that a gulf is big mistake for our country. proposals for MCAst and the yard, while adding he “hoped “Labour are just stubborn on separating the PN from the We would be ruining our only university are poor,” Gonzi the GWU won’t order actions” this issue,” Gonzi said during MLP in education, and called resource in our country if La- said. against their proposals. his public dialogue in Cos- on voters not to let political bour is elected.” Yesterday, the government al- picua’s Gavino Gulia square. affiliation come in the way Harking back to the 1980s in so inaugurated the st Ignatius [email protected] Sant hits back at The Times: they wrote about puddings WAKING up to the news that will be suing him for libel over the interview appearing yesterday in the sunday times, hit back at the newspaper’s editorial stand challenging him to bring forward evidence of corruption instead of shooting from the hip. “the Opposition leader makes a damning implicit admission: that he is making statements which undoubtedly damage people’s reputations without having anything but gossip and hearsay to back them up,” said the sunday times leader Simone Cini tends to bring out the best yesterday under the title ‘the in Sant, who looked ‘cool and relaxed’ proof of the pudding’. “this is on Il-Hadd ma’ l-Ahbar, on One TV not acceptable in pub conversa- tion, let alone on the political platform.” speaking during the sunday programme on One tV pre- rided the times for its stand. he told the presenter as she they don’t even bother investi- morning newspaper analysis sented by simone Cini, sant de- “they wrote about puddings,” broached the subject. “truth is, gating corruption.” Dive in now. www.maltatoday.com.mt daily 6 maltatoday election special | Monday 25 February 2008 news news Monday 25 February 2008 | maltatoday election special 7 Fear and loathing on the campaign trail MaltaToday’s reporters sum up the last weeks of campaigning Julia Farrugia has experienced the good, The election campaign Julia the bad and the ugly has been hijacked Farrugia in this election and Karl by non-political previous ones. Schembri nobodies… which is Over the past 11 years I have tions for the last round. By that been fortunate enough to be cho- time Lawrence would be craving probably just as well sen to anchor Eddie Fenech Ad- a cigarette and close to losing his ami, Lawrence Gonzi and Alfred temper. Often, towards the end of Sant. In general it is an enjoyable an hour-long press conference, he It’s trendy nowadays for every are no longer Labour’s exclusive experience… you tend to get to would flip. Second Coming - Lawrence Gonzi with arms outstretched in nobody to write an opinion piece territory. It’s a veritable revolu- “know” a party leader from a dif- During this campaign Gonzi is his familiar acknowledgment to his listeners. Scores of or some sort of first-hand per- tion, as PN’s secretary general ferent perspective. You also get to off the cigarettes. It’s a different young Nationalist supporters sat behind Gonzi are deployed sonal account of the toils and tur- so aptly put it about the “anti- recognise the personality traits, attitude altogether. It’s a Gonzi to give his party the ‘younger’ look moils of daily life. So when faced establishment” university stu- those fine sensors that immedi- who unsuccessfully “polished” with the decision from above to dents shouting “Gonzi! Gonzi!” Triumphant return - Labour leader ately tell you when it’s time for the his answering skills. At times he write this kind of stuff for our dai- before either the Prime Minister Alfred Sant is greeted by a man to get angry, when he is an- simply ignores a question and rat- peatedly ignored my question. respective journalists. I’ve been taken their leaders to task with ly, my reaction was, yes, why not? or Alfred Sant had opened their massive crowd of well wishers noyed or when he is relaxed and tles off another answer. But it’s Then, in a tangled mix-up, there. I experienced this repeat- some tough questions. And even It’s a great and cheap way to fill up mouths. More than a revolution, in his first public appearance about to crack a joke. still the Gonzi who sporadically Lawrence Gonzi stated that the edly in the past campaigns, be following me to my car after hav- a daily when you’re short on the the young Caruana Galizia did at the Labour general conference There’s also that good vibe dur- loses his temper, and these are the reference to cohabitation is still they for a general election, a local ing checked to see whether a One hard stories, like the Pope’s death, a paradigm shift in showing the after undergoing surgery back ing television debates, which I times when you go back to work present in the PN’s manifesto. council one, a referendum or the TV cameraman was ok after be- the collapse of some Manwel Di- world that even a Nationalist can in December believe provide a challenge both with a story in hand. But oops! The 1998 promise isn’t European Parliament Election. ing hurt during an incident at the mech Bridge, or, say, Daphne’s do a Nathalie Attard when faced to the journalist and the leader Work, education and Gozo were there any longer. There were times when the PN’s Qormi activity. The cam- conversion to Labour. with a camera. himself. three main themes tackled this And how was he going to elimi- PN secretary general called me era was only switched off when I That’s true only to an extent Thanks to Daphne’s son we’re Here’s my theory: when politi- ter a decade or so trying to con- bour’s proposal to remove tax will In this election I have been as- week. He gets a thumbs up for nate conflicts of interest when names during a press conference was chatting with close friends of though, because just as we were all entitled to use that nice lit- cians get too tame, there’s a whole vince everyone it’s not the case, affect me as much as Gonzi’s new signed to Lawrence Gonzi. Unlike saying he is different from the he reforms MEPA as promised? simply because I was doing my mine, including a PN candidate starting to grumble in the news- tle ‘F’ word now, no need to be army of political journalists, well, what can I say, I just love be- way of doing politics. But just in his predecessor he is comfortable MLP. “MLP promised to create More concrete examples, please. job and asking a question to Law- and a former bodyguard of Eddie room about the blandness of the Labour tesserati. Just don’t use pundits and apologists ready to ing negative. I love it. And I love case the ILO starts getting funny to work with. He loves the camera 6,000 jobs! We will get 6,000 new Again this remained unan- rence Gonzi; on other occasions Fenech Adami. election campaigns, we get some ‘dude’ if you don’t want to be bul- pounce on each other and steal the label. ideas about suing my employer: and has the right flair for an elec- jobs every year. We will create swered. No concrete measures I was literally knocked down to And bingo! The next day NET real action footage from the lied to death. This is Malta, not the show. I can’t blame them. Just look at the negative cam- we do get free takeaway food and toral campaign. He is also a natu- 20,000 work places in the next so far. But I did get silly questions the floor with a blow to the back News used the Qormi footage in trenches with Net and One jour- South Park. What do you expect these people paigns. They’re a good laugh, occasionally I can also bring my ral when mingling with people, legislature,” Gonzi insisted in Safi right after that PBS debate, such while interviewing Eddie Fenech a piece on the MLP crew behav- nalists duelling each other with Thing is, Labour is becoming with a strong sense of vocation good TV, they’re even better than dog to work with me. Now that’s spontaneously eating beans with last Tuesday. as: “So you’re gay? Are you sepa- Adami at the Gzira PN club. ing improperly. There I was in microphones at the Zebbug MLP very disappointing, what with bal- and missionary zeal to do? Smoke Edward Spiteri’s faith healing what I call family friendly poli- farmers on Thursday, or disclos- But definitely a thumbs down a rated?” And indeed it was always “nor- the footage – with all the impli- event last Friday. let dancers on its billboards eve- themselves to death as they move sessions on Smash, which, from cies. ing that he was tempted to skate few hours later facing MaltaTo- None of the above. And what if? mal practice” for PN and MLP cations it carried for me, that is Finally, something to write rywhere. And what are the oth- on the campaign trail with party what I can see, have totally run And I can also call mobile at the opening of the first skating day’s questions during the TVM Does this make a difference in a cameramen to film each other the wrongful portrayal that I had about. But hold on, these are not ers doing looking at her? Waiting leaders in search of some great out of ideas and miracles. Don’t phones from my desk, print my ring in Msida two weeks ago. But debate organised by the Broad- supposed European country that while the journalist is taking been somehow involved in the in- the actual candidates. Look at the for reception class? Hell, Labour scoop? Binge drink? Eat qassatat? the faithful walk on water any private shit, send faxes to whoever I have to admit that I saw the PN casting Authority. Asking the boasts of inclusivity and solidar- comments. cident. people making headlines: Jo Said, have even been robbed of Becky, Investigate stories? longer? I want, and call overseas too! leader change from the Gonzi I Prime Minister to convince me ity? But this time around things are But that doesn’t change the fact Michael Woods, Daphne’s son… that bastion of socialist bullying So now we have pundits and So I’m here meant to write my Who needs change? A few bucks knew in the previous campaign. on the “flimkien kollox possibli” But back to the campaign trail. reaching new levels. Even inde- that it’s an unacceptable practice what’s happening here? Aren’t we now employed by GonziPN for photographers, columnists and personalised account of the cam- from the Good Causes Fund will There’s just a fine line. (together everything’s possible) Certain things do not change. pendent media journalists like by parties. I thought the PN was supposed to be filming and writ- her inquisitive questioning of the correspondents on the front line paign trail on what has been my do the trick. Get it, Tonio? And More than two years ago he was slogan if I had to tell him I was I’m not surprised at seeing NET myself have been filmed by the slightly wiser on such a matter – ing about politicians tearing each PN leader. I remember her forc- grabbing headlines and clamour- historical off day, in line with the I’ll spend them better than the an avid smoker. I would at that one of more than 14,000 gay peo- TV or One TV footage showing NET crew after press confer- why irritate someone who is there other to bits? Where’s the fun? ing children to give her apples to ing for solidarity. Catholic teachings about the day speaker’s son on dubious Carav- time reserve the hardest ques- ple in Malta, Lawrence Gonzi re- hostile attitudes towards their ences in which we would have to monitor your campaign? What are we expected to write appear on screen in the heyday of We journalists are always ac- of the Lord. Hell I don’t even get aggio exhibitions and on the most about? Xandir Malta, when red was red cused of being negative and never paid overtime, neither ‘bis-siegha- corrupt team in Italian football. I would expect that as it is done It gets even worse: hamallati and not some hue of magenta. seeing anything positive. And af- siegha’ nor in any other way, so La- Promise to Gonzi. Will AD break the in all other countries, they would ask for our support,” Vassallo glass ceiling of said. Sabrina Agius on the teachers their job back. Parents Regarding its priorities in a coa- have been intruding in their job. Charlot lition, Vassallo said that AD was This can’t be accepted. It is com- Maltese politics mixed messages Zahra ready to make a coalition with pletely unacceptable that teachers that party which subscribes to its are threatened or scared of being this time round? six priorities for the forthcoming Sabrina coming out of Malta’s beaten up simply because they general elections. Agius are doing their job.” Charlot Zahra looks behind “We have our identity and newest political As expected from a self-pro- therefore whoever wants to en- claimed Christian party, AN’s the scenes of the Green ter into a coalition with us has to party’s campaign emphasis on the family cannot respect our identity. You can ask pass unnoticed. Reference to the the other parties whether they On yer bike - Harry Vassallo and family was made in practically campaign have any fundamental disagree- Arnold Cassola on an AD walkabout every press conference… even the ment with our proposals,” Vas- Azzjoni Nazzjonali has used ciety, AN’s proposes a “total re- ones about illegal immigrants or Azzjoni Nazzjonali sallo insisted. this electoral campaign to project vision” of offences and punish- the MIDI project. leader Josie Muscat at Zejtun Despite the bitter experience of Asked how can he expect to The six priority areas listed by ous claim is that a vote for AD ment elections, AD had polled itself as the party which exposes ments. The right-wing party is “Cancer in the core of the fam- the 2003 general elections, when form a coalition with PN this AD are the environment, hous- is a wasted vote which would 23,000 votes and Cassola was and discusses national issues also promising life sentences for ily is increasing, even if we still Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) time around now that there is no ing, transport, the family, the eventually lead to a Labour vic- not elected by a whisker. AD is which the other political parties premeditated homicide, human believe that the majority of our educational traits,” it seems that out of life.” was unceremoniously dumped binding factor between the two economy, and democracy and tory. keen to capitalise on that politi- – especially the PN and MLP – and drug trafficking, with no families are strong,” Muscat an- AN has now declared itself in fa- In fact, AN would introduce a by Nationalist Party (PN) leader parties as strong as the EU last human rights. Asked whether he believed that cal coup. prefer to ignore. possibility of an amnesty, as well nounced during one of his press vour of gay civil unions. flat tax. “Our party agrees with during the time, Vassallo said: “We are not However, the Nationalist Par- the party would reach the target “If only half of them voted for Overlooking the fact that his as the confiscation of personal conferences. To decrease the But as Bill Clinton once said: easing taxes in this country. We very last mass meeting at Luxol, speaking about a coalition with ty has not been very keen to of three to four MPs in Parlia- AD, then there would be more own party list includes at least assets from illicit gains in case of “cancer effect”, AN proposes re- “It’s the economy, stupid”; and AN agree with having a flat tax.” the party is still insisting on an the PN; we are speaking about a form a coalition with AD, with ment, Vassallo said: “There is than 10,000 people who would one candidate with criminal con- embezzlement of public funds. forms to adjust problems within has it own ideas when it comes to At the same time, AN also alliance with either the PN or the coalition after the general elec- Prime Minister Lawrence Gon- no reason why we should not have voted for AD. Our calcu- victions for theft and drug pos- One thing for sure: Muscat did Maltese families, most of which managing the country’s finances. claims that it would not hesitate MLP. tions have taken place. The pres- zi excluding completely such a have a number of MPs in Parlia- lations show that that would be session, Dr Josie Muscat has used not leave out crimes committed are caused by financial burdens “We should have smaller govern- to throw down the drain the mil- AD chairperson Harry Vassallo ence of AD in parliament would coalition with the Green Party. ment. When one considers the equivalent to four MPs. We do this election campaign to ham- by foreigners, which according to and constraints. ment,” Dr Josie Muscat declared. lions invested in the Sant’Antnin claims to be willing to work to- mean that the other two parties “From the statements made by history of AD, the work of peo- not even have the right to ex- mer home a tough message: “Law him are on the rise in Malta. AN But again, there appears to be a “There are too many ministries waste plant since it was built gether again with the PN (or the would not have an absolute ma- AD, I understand that there is ple like Arnold Cassola, Mario pect so many (votes). However, and order” is the key to move for- has promised to strip citizenship bit of a mix-up regarding the defi- and this means having more bu- against its inhabitants will. In- Labour Party) in a coalition after jority. If the PN wins 33 seats in an alliance between AD and the Mallia, and, I am not ashamed that nationwide result would ward in this country. away from foreigners if they have nition of “the family”. Even if ear- reaucracy and waste of public stead, it is proposing a gasifica- the March 8 general elections. the next Parliament, it would be Labour Party.” of saying, myself. change because in some dis- “Society has become the vic- a criminal record in their home lier in the campaign, AN’s leader funds.” tion plant. In an interview with Malta- in government on its own, there- This position is now being “Now there are also people tricts we have much more sup- tim of criminals, but this must countries. had outlined that its stand on Having AN represented in Par- And all along, AN keeps insist- Today on 17 February, Vassallo fore the option of a coalition echoed by media pundits like with a track record and political port than in others.” change. The criminal must be AN said it would fight crime by families being exclusively com- liament would mean making ing on a stronger and affective said: “With this party we are also would not arise. , who profile like Carmel Cacopardo. Wi l l A D t h i s t i me a rou nd m a n- scared of society and not vice ver- “investing in the education of our posed of “a man and a woman, every individual in the country “a Whistleblowers Act and Ac- ready to work. We know that AD “However if AD elects a deputy dedicated a whole article in her I think it would a shame if they age to break the glass ceiling for sa,” Muscat insisted at the launch children”, highlighting that “dis- who unite in marriage, deciding small rich person”: with Muscat countability Act. One wonders will be in the next Parliament or deputies in such a manner regular columns on The Malta did not obtain a very respect- the election of the third party in of his party’s manifesto. cipline is the basis of everything” to have children whereby these stressing that “everyone should what shall AN’s next radical pro- and the attitude of the other par- that the other parties cannot Independent to bashing AD. able result.” Parliament that has been there To have a more disciplined so- and that the party intends “giving benefit from their character and have the right to make the best posal be. ties will be totally different.” form a government on their own, The Nationalist Party’s tenu- In the last European Parlia- for the past 41 years? PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT CALLEJA 8 maltatoday election special | Monday 25 February 2008 news news Monday 25 February 2008 | maltatoday election special 9 ‘We have no regrets’ Julia Farrugia Lawrence Gonzi said that he iterated his pledge that by 2010, speech was ‘interrupted’ by huge came to Sliema armed with a he will reach his ambitious goal bursts of applause, for the most list of results attained by his to end the year with a surplus Stay calm. part by young people… whose Lawrence Gonzi defined the Government during the past instead of a deficit. presence was also evidenced by past four years as a success sto- five years, and entreated the And the list went on: “During Don’t react to a striking, enormous banner ry which embraces a winning people to judge him on these the past legislature we improved with the words “Studenti ma’ track record for the electoral to achievements. social benefits and we gave chil- provocation. Gonzi” (“the students are with analyse before the general elec- Then came a punchy list of dren’s allowance to all,” Gonzi Gonzi”). tion. Gonzi’s feats: “We have reached stressed. “We’ve strengthened Mobilise your And not without good reason: “We are here in Sliema to a historical record in tour- education, we upgraded schools for the Prime Minister reiterated show you a track record that ism; in 2007 we had a 4% eco- and we built a new hospital.” friends and the pledge made on campus last makes you all proud,” a well- nomic growth which stands And he relentlessly attacked Monday that he would not only focused Gonzi told a densely much higher than that of other the credibility of the Labour your family retain the University stipends, packed Dingli Street. “And we EU countries; we have 169,000 Party throughout. “How can but also augment them. have no regrets,” he insisted gainfully occupied workers, by the MLP and its leader say that Gonzi also advised young peo- time and again throughout his far the largest number; and in the country is at a standstill so that on 8th ple not to trust the MLP, imply- 1hr 35 min speech. the past years we created more when we have introduced the ing that Sant’s intention was to For the most part, the mass than 20,000 new jobs…” euro, the strongest currency? March you give take back the 10% grant which meeting message was geared Lawrence Gonzi highlighted “The euro is the certificate young people will benefit on towards youths and students… other achievements, including showing that the government an answer their first property. He asked a clear indication that the PN the accomplished target to re- and its policies have claimed a the younger generation whether intends targeting the 17,000+ duce the deficit to the lowest success for our country,” Gonzi they wanted to trust a Sant gov- first-time voters. rate ever. The PN leader also re- claimed. ernment on the overtime issue. But Lawrence Gonzi, aware of Describing the MLP’s overtime the areas where his popularity proposal as a “soap opera”, Gon- High points has been dented, also had a few zi warned against a fiasco if La- confessions to make. bour is returned to power after “We were not perfect, there March 8: “Alfred Sant already • Gonzi’s delivery was impeccable as are more things that need to be did this with his own workers (at always: able to rouse the audience’s done. We believe in our coun- One Productions), let alone with try. We’re here holding our re- all the Maltese,” Gonzi insisted. enthusiasm, by creating the right tempo, sults so that you can judge us on Then Maltese Premier also building to a well-managed climax without these accomplishments.” had some sobering advice for On the environment, he said: the younger audience members. getting hysterical. “I admit that we did not suc- “Stay calm. Don’t react to prov- ceed in attaining what people ocation. Mobilise your friends • Gonzi’s list of attained targets: expected. Yes we could have and your family so that on the convincing, inspiring and a complete done better. In five years’ time 8th of March you give an an- I want to come again in Sliema swer. And then shout more than show of trust in the . and tell you that the environ- when we were at the University,” • Gonzi addressing the younger ment did improve,” said a firm Gonzi bellowed. Gonzi. The Nationalist leader insisted generation: “I invite you, be the Then came another apology, on more than one occasion that ambassadors of the Maltese and this time on Mater Dei. Law- Nationalists should not take rence Gonzi said that he per- anything for granted. People Gozitans.” Thumbs up on a campaign sonally understands that until need to chase every single vote things settle down there will on every single day. “I invite you level considering that in this election be certain problems in the hos- all – be the ambassadors for the there are around 17,000 new voters pital. He referred to one of his Maltese and Gozitans!” party manifesto’s 353 propos- At one point, Lawrence Gonzi aged between 18 and 23. als: to eradicate waiting lists. stated that his party is not afraid At the same time he beseeched to face hurdles and he even healthcare professionals and claimed that he always answers patients to cooperate. questions. In perfect tandem - Low points And then, Gonzi addressed the “We address challenges and do Lawrence Gonzi and wife Kate greet supporters at yesterday’s mass meeting in Sliema, medical doctors’ brain drain. not postpone them. And what and below left, the DNA jibe by is sent up by a Nationalist supporter Gonzi said that people need to about the questions? We an- who says is proud of his genetic make-up thank their General Practition- swer them and do not run away. • The young girl who is the poster child er. “It would be a huge mistake And if someone criticises us, we for the PN’s electoral programme and if we took the family doctor for listen; and we do not call him granted,” Gonzi said. hamallu (lout).” environment billboard presented a yellow Repeatedly during his address, More applause was reserved for daisy (lelluxa) to Gonzi and his wife – an PN leader promised a way of do- the Prime Minister’s promise to ing politics that is different to pay special attention to the en- inane stage-managed gesture, which also the Labour Party’s. vironment. Gonzi declared that raises questions about the gratuitous “Whom do you want to trust? environmental issues would in That party which wants to cre- fact be his top priority: to the use of children in political campaigns. ate 25,000 new jobs, or the party extent that out of the €855 mil- which wants to create 6,000?” lion allocated to Malta, more • Gonzi’s reference to the MLP overtime In the same breath he also than one third – €300 million “soap opera” was accompanied by a TV slammed the labour leader for – would be invested in the en- his orchestrated mud-slinging vironment. close up of a ONE News cameraman. campaign, accusing various The Prime Minister also out- This was dangerously provocative. Nationalist ministers of corrup- lined his party’s promise of a tion. reform of the tax bands, offer- • Gonzi happily announced that in a few “Every time we had a report (on ing a package which he claimed days’ time, he will open a retirement corruption), we sent it directly would provide incentives for to the Commissioner of Police more workers to enter the la- home in Mellieha. Ok, one of those to be investigated,” he said, in- bour market and above all, earn viting the crowd to “judge both more money. election stunts a few days before D-day. parties on what they do, even “Our policies will also serve so Anything but impressive… when it comes to corruption.” that more and better employ- Gonzi was forced to make nu- ment is created in our country,” merous, lengthy pauses as his Prime Minister Gonzi declared. PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT CALLEJA 10 maltatoday8 maltatoday election election special special | Monday | Monday 25 February 25 February 2008 2008 newsnews newsnews Monday 25Monday February 25 2008 February | maltatoday 2008 | maltatoday election special election 11 special 9

nationalism in black - Josie Muscat makes his point on so called ‘liberals’ and illegal immigrants, whom he calls ‘enemies of the state’

Arnold Cassola, Mario Mallia and Alternattiva Demokratika chairperson Harry Vassallo Josie quotes Gandhi, then at yesterday’s AD rally for party activists PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT CALLEJA calls irregular immigrants Harry Vassallo’s “enemies of the state” PHOTOGRAPHY BY THEREsE DEBono

DAVID DArMANIN man who fought against the Germany,” he thundered. “In the (cwiec u bla mohh). British Empire, not against the beginning, people of these coun- “I spoke to a teacher,” he re- handful of coarse (erbat iqlafat) tries were told that they (immi- sumed, “who assigned her pupils At a Zebbug public meeting or- journalists who are trying to de- grants) would soon leave. Instead, to write an essay about their fa- ganised by Azzjoni Nazzjonali stroy what we are fighting for,” he they kept on hatching, causing thers. Astonishingly, one of the (AN) yesterday, far-right political shouted to an audience of around huge problems. Now they want to children asked her which of his ‘silent revolution’ leader Josie Muscat chose to start 50, most of whom were evidently get rid of them and do not know three fathers he should write his speech with a line first uttered hunters. where to start from because about. Another teacher told me CHArLOT ZAHrA Although for the other par- ing to a national crisis. “Eco- ties, the 8 March was the be- nomic reality will soon catch by Indian pacifist Mahatma Gan- “We have been dubbed ‘heart- these people have become Italian, that most of the secondary school all and end-all of everything, “Why should we up with us, and everybody will dhi. Ironically, the quote served less’ and ‘cruel’ because we speak French, English and German, like girls she teaches are expecting a ALtENAttIVA Demokra- for Vassallo the election date be affected. as a platform for Muscat to ag- about illegal immigration,” he them. What will happen in Malta child, and those who aren’t, feel tika (AD) chairperson Harry was merely the beginning of a take a decision “the fruit of the work of our gressively lash out at liberals, the stated. “We hold nothing against in 50 years’ time?” left out.” Vassallo said that if AD was long future. grandfathers and fathers, who printed media, the anti-hunting human beings, and this must be Muscat went on to define the Muscat reserved his most lobby and irregular immigrants, said. However, our country is far coming election as a “referen- scathing attack for Maltese liber- elected to Parliament, it would “Why should we take a de- on the destiny invested all their savings to AN’s Zebbug activity bring about a silent revolution cision on the destiny of our build their properties, will be referring to the latter as “enemies too populated to be able to sus- dum… for you to choose whether als: “these liberals want Malta to of the state.” tain this invasion.” Conscious you want this abuse to carry on. included a display of end up looking like a zoo, where in Maltese politics. kids on the basis of fear? Why of our kids on wiped off completely,” Vas- birds, in line with its Addressing party activists should we evaluate the past on sallo warned. “First they laugh at you, then of the warlike imagery being In Malta they’re already hatch- we all end up jumping on one they ignore you, then they fight used, Muscat qualified hs earlier ing, you know?” support of the hunting another. this is the situation the during a meeting at a hotel in the basis of taboos?” the AD the basis of He said the other parties lobby st Julian’s yesterday morning, leader insisted. would never agree to pass in with you, then you win,” he said. statement: “And I use this word Echoing FKNK secretary Lino liberals want – the same liberals Vassallo said AD had been set Vassallo said that if AD were fear?” Parliament a law regulating “these words were uttered by ‘invasion’ because our situation Farrugia almost word for word, when they see a bird dying they who write against us on newspa- up to bring forward a change elected to Parliament, there the financing of political par- none other than Gandhi, the constitutes one, as stated by in- Muscat launched a tirade against cry and lose sleep… for a bird! pers, those who have described in Malta’s political culture. would surely be a quiet at- ties as long as the strings of ternational law. the invader is an BirdLife Malta’s executive direc- We are not scared of them, I say. AN as a party that aims to take “this challenge is more diffi- mosphere in the country as their purses were controlled enemy of the state.” tor tolga temuga: “We don’t need AN is calling on the government, us back to the days of our grand- cult than, say, winning a local nobody would have obtained by the donations of building “And then a handful of wise, any turk telling us what to do,” the newspapers, the opposition parents.” council election.” an absolute majority in Parlia- contractors. compassionate people,” he sar- he said. “We are capable enough and the EU on this. We will stop “the more you attack us, the He called on the people to ment; a change from the car- Vassallo explained the one of castically carried on, “will tell to decide between us Maltese. hunting when they disarm. And more we speak. If you, the lib- think with their mind, rather cades that generally follow the the reasons why AD was set up us to let them (immigrants) turn We believe that everyone has a not even then, because hunting is erals, are attacking us it means with their own hearts as the announcement of a general in 1989 was in reaction to the into Maltese, like us. Why don’t right to this pastime, so long as a Maltese pastime.” we’re right. so let them look up other two main parties are election result. corruption that was rife in the they say how much money they’re it is done within the parameters switching to family issues – all of our candidates’ history leading voters to do with their Vassallo said that during the 1970s and 1980s. He said that getting from the EU?” of law. We are against any type of another topic on which AN has since birth. As if I’m scared of scaremongering tactics. past 40 years of one-party gov- single file starting from Pem- because now we do not have on the basis of the testimony “Look at what happened in abuse, and we cannot possibly de- been harshly criticised –Muscat that handful of coarse newspa- Vassallo said AD was an in- ernment, the two main parties broke, one would end up at Ze- enough resources to cope with supplied by AD, a former Min- , France, Eng- fend any abuser,” he continued. said: “We are here because of per journalists…” visible party as there was no have been found very much bbug. “If they did not do this, current demands to be com- ister had been found guilty of land and “Newspaper pundits are such our fathers and mothers, who On yesterday’s edition, Malta- opportunity for its supporters wanting in terms of planning. then we would not have ended petitive with other countries,” corruption. hypocrites (faccoli),” he added. have disciplined us together as today revealed that one of AN’s to meet in a mass meeting like During this election, only AD up with the huge problems we Vassallo lamented. since its inception, AD has “We have recognised the right a couple and modelled us into candidates has a criminal record the big parties do. “to this day, mentioned the fact that there are facing today,” he said. Vassallo reiterated AD’s call always insisted on a law regu- to hunt and they have written being worthy citizens. Can you featuring numerous convictions I still meet new people who tell are 53,000 vacant properties to fill them all up, Malta’s for a comprehensive reform lating the financing of politi- against us. such jealous and spite- believe that last year there were on charges of theft and drug pos- me that they have been voting on the island, 60% of which population would have to in- of the present rent laws. “We cal parties. ful people! this is simply because 900 births to fathers unknown? session; another is facing charges AD for the past 18 years.” are in a good condition. “this crease by around 200,000 peo- have had controlled rent in Among the people who at- they never managed to do any- How can we have disciplined of money-laundering, while an- Vassallo called on the elec- is the extremity to which the ple. But Malta does not have Malta for the past 69 years. In tended the AD meeting there thing worthy in their lives. Let families without fathers? then, other is in court over incitement torate to reflect deeply on political system of this coun- enough resources such as wa- 1947 there was a shortage of was self-styled PN dissident Jo me tell you what hypocrites newspapers will report that we to racial hatred, while another their vote. “the decisions that try has led the country to,” ter and electricity to cope with property for rent, but now the said, who arrived just before these journalists are. France are against single mothers. On again stands accused of illegally are taken now will affect us Vassallo insisted. all that added demand. situation is the opposite. the meeting started at 10am. and England spend massive the contrary, we’re defending occupying public land. amounts of money on weapon- women. these people (journal- for the rest of our lives,” he in- If one had to put all the va- “We have wasted these re- He warned that the current Josie Muscat - Firebrand [email protected] sisted. cant properties in Malta in a sources in a criminal way property glut will burst, lead- [email protected] ry and they say nothing, and then ists) are stupid and pea-brained 12 maltatoday election special | Monday 25 February 2008 news news Monday 25 February 2008 | maltatoday election special 13 Sant keeps thousands pumped up as he reaches out to sceptics

Karl Schembri working in a wide range of the Maltese people as opposed the results published in Sun- sectors to stay on their guard to foreigners – a cue taken later day’s MaltaToday showing the against the “multitude of lies” although somehow more subtly We’ll be the PN winning slight support over An energetic Alfred Sant kept coming from the PN. by Sant when he said more Mal- Labour for the first time in the the tempo high as he faced Without referring to the re- tese youths will be trained to enemy of campaign. thousands of Labour support- ception class proposal by name, work in financial services where “The best surveys are not ers who gathered at the Flori- Sant said his party’s measure many foreigners are employed bureaucracy, those the others are coming up ana Granaries for the party’s would be implemented gradu- – a sector which under Labour with,” Falzon told Labour sup- third mass meeting in this elec- ally after discussions with par- will purportedly see “double or the enemy of porters. “You are the best sur- tion campaign yesterday. ents and teachers, “not in the triple” the amount of existing vey; you will give the best sur- With the crowd roused earlier bat of an eyelid”, and only after jobs in four years’ time. every form of vey on 8 March.” by his deputy Michael Falzon there is agreement about it. “We had the lowest rate of Falzon made his customary who stirred up “the mass of li- “It’s an invitation we’re making job creation in 50 years,” Sant corruption, fiery entry referring to the “li- ons” forming “Labour united”, to all the Maltese and all Gozi- said about Gonzi’s government. ons of change” and chanting Sant gave a 45-minute speech tans, with the determination to “A total of 1,500 full-time jobs in typical football victory cel- entreating people to “choose safeguard Malta’s interests, the were lost in the last four years. the enemy of ebration fashion. “We’re here Labour” – a phrase repeated national interests; an invita- We’ll create 6,000 in manufac- among the Floriana lions, next throughout his speech in which tion we make with conviction: turing and industry.” every form of to the lions, together he also claimed to defend the Choose Labour, because we Giving a whole list of aban- with the lions who will be vot- right of those who disagreed care for the future of all of you,” doned sites, projects and di- nepotism ing on 8 March for change,” he with his party. Sant told the massive crowd in lapidated historical buildings said. “You’re the magic of this “We’ll be the enemy of bu- front of him. – from St Elmo to Dock no.1 country.” reaucracy, the enemy of every Choosing Labour meant to Fort Chambray – Sant said Falzon then narrowed down form of corruption, the enemy choosing the party that put the his government would improve his speech on employing more of every form of nepotism,” families and work at the centre what is already good and up- Maltese, as opposed to foreign- Sant said. “Our invitation is of its policies, Sant said. grade and utilise the country’s ers. finding resonance among those He reiterated his pledge to cut most beautiful resources. “Employ the Maltese, and who were sceptical about us. hospital waiting lists by 15 per “Since Independence our we’ll take care of you,” he said Whoever disagrees with us has cent every year. country made great strides to foreign investors. “We agree a right to disagree with us and “We have to implement this in tourism, except under with Smart City, but we want we won’t be the ones to boo for that elderly woman who has GonziPN,” Sant said, moving the Maltese and the Gozitans them.” been waiting years for a knee on to sister paper’s Illum front to work there. They boast of Sant said his initial estimate replacement, for that woman page story of yesterday about having opened a Lm300 million that the Nationalists would who is waiting for her breast the tourism minister’s private hospital… yet it lacks Maltese spin “one lie a day” was a mod- screening appointment, for use of Russian ballet dancers workers.” est estimate now that they were those children waiting for an whose trip was sponsored by Falzon also promised a Labour “hatching around 100 lies dai- eye check-up. And we’ll do it.” the tourism authority. government would “not forget” ly”. Falzon set the scene earlier “Last year’s tourism boom shipyard workers and that their He went on to warn people by talking about giving jobs to happened without any credit to jobs would be safeguarded – de- Francis Zammit Dimech, who spite this being the last year of instead of being interested in subsidies for the ‘yards accord- High points tourism is more interested ing to EU commitments. in watching Russian dancers He referred to former Solidar- for his personal shows,” Sant nosc leader Lech Walesa who • Quite atypical of Sant, who has a habit lashed out. made his case with the EU to of antagonising dissenters, he defended He claimed that under La- save the Gdansk shipyards, and bour, tourism would generate the same will happen under a the right of those who disagreed with his €1.5 billion a year. Labour government with the Promising a generous budget collaboration of the European party for Gozo “so they could pro- Socialists. • Keeping a constant high, Sant also mote it themselves”, the re- “We will discuss with our col- introduction of the subsidised leagues of the Party of Europe- managed to avoid the gloomy, monotone helicopter ser v ice, a golf course an Socialists, who have already type of speeches he tends to lapse into and yacht marinas in the Gozi- given us a certificate that the tan island, Sant also pledged MLP is a Maltese party and a after the first five minutes to upgrade the Bugibba zone European party,” Falzon said. and to “give back the south the Downplaying the PN’s envi- respect it deserves”. ronmental credentials, Falzon Lambasting the government said it was only lately that Law- Low points for doing nothing when faced rence Gonzi “discovered wind with the closure of Jerma Pal- energy”. ace Hotel, he promised “a big “I’ll tell him he’ll face more five-star hotel in the south” than wind, he’ll face the gale of • Repeating ‘Choose Labour’ ad nauseam, and also “to give full attention change,” he said. at times Sant screamed it as if it was from central government” to The other deputy leader, the region. The dilapidated Charles Mangion, challenged an order. It’s true ‘aghzel Labour’ is, Dock no.1 seemed like “broken Gonzi to deny that he was about grammatically, in the imperative but try dentures”, he said. to raise the cost of gas cylinders Also reiterating his pledge and to start charging for gov- make it sound as if it is a free choice of zero tolerance on corrup- ernment healthcare. please, Dr Sant tion, Sant said any accusation He claimed a Labour govern- of corruption that is levelled at ment would strengthen Air • Charles Mangion mistakenly refers to anyone under his government Malta while the PN would “con- would be seriously investigat- tinue dismantling it”. the Granaries as ix-Xaghra, instead of ed. Like Falzon, Mangion also the Fossos. “Ix-Xaghra isn’t big enough promised the shipyards would Ignore the surveys be viable again. for us,” he said to the multitudes. Sorry Michael Falzon told the “You are not a burden on the Charles, that’s the ground opposite crowd to “ignore the surveys” country,” he told ‘yard workers. that were coming out in what “We have great ambitions for seemed a clear reference to you.” Quote

1214 maltatodaymaltatoday election election specialspecial || MondayMonday 2525 FebruaryFebruary 20082008 opinionnews editorialnews Monday 25 February 2008 | maltatoday election special 1513 If this is not irresponsible then what is? believe we are truly water, no one talks of the Gospel but they serve as an indicator missing one very energy conservation. of public sentiment and trends. important twist in there is of course Once again, Falzon in his rhetoric and thisI deluge of electoral an abundance of talk hysteria has eaten away at a basic tenet promises. about wind farms out in the reporting of the democratic proc- the first is the politi- at sea in the deep blue. ess. I shudder to think how he would cal conviction that we But like economic treat criticism from the free press if ever are going to live forever growth, it is very Who said that elected to be part of the government in a Nanny state that much pie in the sky. Cabinet. Imagine Hillary Clinton stand- provides for everything None of the econo- we have no left ing in front of a crowd and rubbishing and everyone. mists that usually “ a media survey. It is an unthinkable Instead of moving stand to be counted wing in Malta? We scenario. onto a more just system Saviour and speak their mind But then how can I compare Hillary to where welfare supports seem to have a word have two socialist Michael F? those in real need, we Balzan about this. there is By the way, I never knew he was such still have politicians no one who has the parties living on a bad singer. Don’t give up the day job, promising more and [email protected] gall to raise a middle Michael. more freebies. finger to the two gen- the moon. Both sant and Gonzi tlemen and tell them Libels accuse each other of wanting to put their fiscal policies are mad. the plethora of libels flying from one a charge on the health service and the exceptions being Karm Farru- side to another confirm to what extent PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT CALLEJA put a price tag on services. Both deny gia and Lino spiteri, who have had no the two parties are willing to abuse the with vengeance they intend to cut free problem spelling out the message that press laws that they themselves have services. you cannot bend over backwards and used to control the frequency of verbal But… why shouldn’t there be a price expect to walk at the same time. Ironi- abuse. It proves beyond doubt the need tag? Why should health be free for eve- cally, both these two economists find to revisit the libel laws which put un- ryone and everything? Why shouldn’t their roots in old Labour. their electoral platforms, gobble up necessary pressure on the courts when we be talking of providing essential the other economists have obviously some humble pie and face the bleak real- the courts should be using their time for services free only to those who have forgotten all about their lectures which ity of administering a budget. more urgent issues. a certain income bracket, instead of carry the theme issue: there is no such With a pension bomb round the cor- providing everything for free? thing as a free lunch. ner, with a health bill that continues to If Gonzi and sant cannot bear to live Which of course brings us to the grow exponentially, with education costs Josie and Gandhi with it, then here it is. You are irre- taxation issue and the taxes we should spiralling and with the infrastructure of there is something chronically wrong sponsible to offer everything for free. be paying as a basic requirement. the country calling out for more invest- with Josie’s examples. He quotes Gandhi Were it not for European membership this is not Lichtenstein, but Malta. ment, and more significantly, with the to hit out at pea-brained journalists. I obligations and directives, they would Here again, both parties are promis- plethora of national projects in around am sure Gandhi, in whatever reincar- be more irresponsible still. ing cuts and more cuts. It is economic the Grand Harbour, either both par- nation he manifests himself in today, the electricity bill, which is still madness to derail fiscal common sense ties think this country has infinite gold would love to hear what Josie stands for. heavily subsidised when compared to for the sole purpose of getting voters reserves, or else they have made a pact I am not quite too sure Josie remem- other EU countries, is to be halved for to vote for you. to attract niche voters, with Osama Bin Laden to implode our bers what Gandhi stood for. the Ma- all households and offered next to free both parties have offered their voters economy. hatma’s early years in apartheid south to needy families. unbelievably juicy super-sized carrots. Neither of the parties have the gall to Africa, his frugal lifestyle, his pacifist It is of course very nice, but what goes Labour wants to give back the public say things as they are. Ask the PN about and non-violent politics, and his aver- up must always come down. someone holidays that fall on weekends and the subsidies to the dockyards, and they sion to profit makes him an unlikely role Editorial will have to finance all this crazy and Nationalists wish for more cuts in tax waffle. Ask the MLP about the precise model to Josie et al. MALTAToDAY, MEDIAToDAY LTD, VJAL IR-RIHAn, sAn GwAnn sGn 9016 • MANAGING DIRECTOR: ROGER de GIORGIO • MAnAGInG EDIToR: sAVIoUR BALZAn • ACTING EDITOR: MATTHEW VELLA outdated Marxist way of doing things. for high-income earners. In a country implications of the 50% surcharge cut If no one can turn to Josie and tell him Tel: (356) 21 382741-3, 21 382745-6 • Fax: (356) 21 385075 • Website: www.maltatoday.com.mt • E-mail: [email protected] Who said that we have no left wing in which still has a serious problem with for individuals who already paying no that everyone is laughing at his example, Malta? We have two socialist parties work ethic and which needs to focus surcharge, and you get strange looks. then I will do him a favour and ask him living on the moon. to get themselves on productivity, and in a nation which to read through some history books. No, elected they are willing to wreck their is intrinsically adverse to paying the not the life history of his candidates and own good work. It is awfully sad. state, such proposals are reckless and Falzon and surveys their brushes with the law. Both Gonzi and sant have rushed to foolish. You have to hand it to him: Michael More about the real life of Mahatma wear this mantle of traditional stuffy Like the ridiculous French socialist Falzon, hunter, banker and fireworks Gandhi. Perhaps then he could think of Tackling corruption left-wing politics which promises eve- suggestion that was implemented years enthusiast, is a fine rabble-rouser. I another role model when he talks to a rything for nothing. back, that introduced the 35-hour week, could of course mention some historical carnivorous grouping of big game hunt- Every sector of Maltese society is measures that cut back on essential rabble rousers in mass meetings such as ers. I could suggest a few role models: tHE Labour party, as evidenced by its scope of such allegations is the inten- reasons for taking on government may secrecy. the transparency involved will being offered a free figolla. And the revenue for government will have to be the one on the Fossos. he could start with Lord Haw Haw and billboards, is making allegations of cor- tion to tar reputations. this cannot go or may not be related to investigations serve as a deterrent for abuses. Govern- answer to the money question is to be reverted. Once again, I have to compliment then, when he runs out of ideas, I will ruption the major plank of its election unnoticed. While accepting that there into alleged corruption concerning his ment has published a white paper on a found in the absurd allegation or pipe When the politicians return to their Falzon for questioning one important come up with some other names – one campaign. have been cases of unethical behaviour, brother. Freedom of Information Act which the dream that our economic growth will Cabinet meetings and daily decisions exercise undertaken by the independ- to match the black attire he chose last As in previous campaigns, accusations bad judgment, political carelessness – the way to fight corruption is to next government should legalise with be greater than any of the other econo- they will have to face stark realities. ent media: surveys. He told the crowd sunday when he addressed a motley are being hurled around with reputa- exposed even in our newspaper – we are strengthen the tools and the mecha- immediate effect. mies’ growth in Western Europe. those realities include making ends to ignore the surveys. Do so, and be crowd of deprived hunters and trap- tions tarnished as a result. But the issue against such blanket accusations. nisms in place. the Permanent Com- there should be even more transpar- so when we talk of electricity or meet. then they will climb down from warned. surveys, dear Michael, are not pers! of corruption needs to be tackled calm- And we are equally uncomfortable mission Against Corruption needs to be ency in the granting of government ly. Corruption needs to be defined and with the political class which is clearly strengthened, allowing it on its own ini- contracts with stringent rules to control certainly not confused with bad judge- unused to probing by non-affiliated me- tiative to investigate allegations of cor- frivolous appeals, on sub-contracting ment, unethical behaviour or conflict of dia, attempting to pigeonhole our news- ruption by beefing up its investigative and on cost overruns. In all political ap- interest. paper. We are proud of our independ- powers. It should be chaired by a person pointments in ministerial secretariats, While totally committed to fighting ence and remain determined to uncover commanding a two-thirds parliamen- strict rules need to be adhered delineat- and exposing corruption, this newspa- abuse from whatever quarter it derives tary approval with security of tenure, ing the relationship between the secre- per feels that politicians should be wary from. executive powers and a proper budget. tariat and the civil service, blood rela- of loosely alleging corruption unless A case in point is Alfred sant’s accusa- the proceedings should also be held in tionships, made known, to ensure the ELECTION SpECIaL they have concrete evidence to back up tion that the private company Where’s an open court. absence of nepotism and a declaration their claims. Equally, we feel that the Everybody? was given the MtV con- Declarations of assets and interests of interests of appointees. ease with which politicians resort to tract by Francis Zammit Dimech as a should no longer be limited to members Regrettably none of this upgrading of filing libel suits needs to be revisited. kickback for the tV production com- of parliament but should be extended to standards is mentioned in the recently Essentially, this should be an action of pany to finance his election campaign. members of the judiciary, chairmen and published electoral manifestos. If cor- very last resort. the blanket accusa- the minister filed legal proceedings directors of government boards and en- ruption is to be exposed and censured, tion that all the Cabinet is corrupt as rebutting this serious accusation imme- tities. Prior to appointment all persons its elimination must be dealt with in a evidenced in the Labour party billboard diately. Alfred sant’s allegation is just a appointed should appear before a par- serious manner meaning that politicians does nothing but tarnish a whole politi- cruel attempt to tarnish reputations. liamentary committee and grilled per- must propose the strengthening of the cal class and only serves to disengage We agree the fight against corruption sons, allowing potential conflicts to be structures which already exist and not citizens further from politics. the same is vital to the healthy development of de- exposed. simply alleging corruption without pro- would go for a recent allegation by a mocracy but the way the Labour leader A Freedom of Information Act should ducing a shed of evidence with the sole Nationalist minister in Alfred sant’s is tackling this issue leaves us sceptical be enacted allowing all government intention of tarnishing reputations. maltatoday regard. of his intentions. He cannot fight cor- files and papers to be open to public Our democracy depends also on our such claims debase the political cur- ruption by first anchoring to a policy of scrutiny. this will allow journalists to capacity to fight corruption and not just on sALE ToMoRRow - Don’T MIss oUT rency and reflect badly on the person zero-tolerance while giving a platform probe documents, which all too often alleging its existence without supplying accusing without evidence. the only to a former Nationalist activist whose are unnecessarily kept under a cloud of proof. 1614 maltatoday election special | Monday 25 February 2008 news sportsnews Monday 25Monday February 25 February2008 | maltatoday 2008 | maltatoday election special election 15 special 17 Football Pullicino denies allegations Woodgate wins cup for Spurs Juve’s open letter JONAtHAN Woodgate’s headed goal in extra-time gave spurs a to FA: ‘Enough!’ 2-1 victory over holders Chelsea by Jo Said on kickbacks in the Carling Cup final. JUVENtUs have written an season that referee Paolo spurs made the brighter start to open letter to the FIGC and Dondarini had been assigned the showpiece but wasted a host Referees’ Association de- to officiate a Juventus match, MATTHeW VeLLA of chances before Didier Drogba, manding action to stop the as he was one of the figures who sent a 25-yard free-kick nar- club being “made to pay” for accused – and cleared – in rowly wide on 33 minutes, made . the trial last year. ENVIRONMENt Minister no mistake six minutes later, the Bianconeri were furious “some decisions by the ref- yesterday de- steering an effort around the after last night’s 2-1 defeat erees are confirming the nied allegations by former PN wall to leave Paul Robinson flat- at Reggina, in which there doubts raised by more than activist Jo said that Nationalist footed. were two clear penalties not a few people – that there is MP David Agius had discussed Drogba’s goal saw him become awarded before a stoppage- not a relaxed and adequate two corruption cases with Jonathan Woodgate of Tottenham Hotspur the first player to score in three time spot-kick gave the Ama- approach towards Juventus him, implicating Pullicino and celebrates with his man of the match trophy League Cup finals - but spurs ranto the win. considering the serious and parliamentary secretary tony after winning the Carling Cup Final against Chelsea drew level on 70 minutes when Now they have taken further professional way the club and Abela. the linesman spotted a handball action by writing an open let- team are behaving. said’s police affidavit, pub- by Wayne Bridge in the 18-yard ter to the Federation and the “What is certain is that Ju- lished yesterday in It-torca, box. Joe Cole in the dying stages and from this next year. Chelsea are AIA – Referees’ Association – ventus cannot keep paying for claims that David Agius met Referee Mark Halsey pointed to secure glory for Ramos’ heroes. a top side and they showed that signed by President Giovanni something they have already him in an Attard café and told the spot, and Dimitar Berbatov tottenham striker Robbie today but we did it.” Cobolli Gigli and general paid an extremely severe him that Pullicino had asked kept his cool to slide the spot-kick Keane described the outcome as Ramos was “happy because manager Jean-Claude Blanc. price. for money in return for Cabi- home. a “dream come true”. the people (fans) are very happy” “the repetition of such se- “the club is lifting itself net’s approval of a permit; while the goal sparked a concerted He said “Hopefully this is start while captain Ledley King hailed rious errors forces us to ask back up from that thanks to Abela had also facilitated some push for a winner by Juande Ra- of something special, hopefully the “spirit” of his side. for the intervention of the the passion of its fans, who le- form of Cabinet approval, the mos’ troops - but the Blues held we can kick on now. It’s special Chelsea boss Avram Grant felt Federation to guarantee the gitimately ask for respect.” affidavit reads. firm to force an extra 30 min- for the fans. his side were unlucky to lose the regularity of this campaign, the Bianconeri were demot- Police are now investigating utes. “this was a massive test for us match but called on his players protecting the work and pro- ed to and stripped of said after David Agius made a spurs kept their momentum and it’s unbelievable and a dream to regain focus for the challenges fessionalism of the players, two scudetto titles in the Cal- formal complaint that he was going in the extra period and come true to come out as win- ahead. Coach and directors of Juven- ciopoli scandal. “I did not think being blackmailed. It is being took the lead on 94 minutes, ners. I dreamt of this moment as He said: “I think even in the tus.” Meanwhile, it has been con- it was a penalty. alleged that said tried to force when Jermaine Jenas floated a kid and I’m speechless.” second half tottenham were not One of the theories put for- firmed that Cristiano Zanetti Wayne Bridge could Agius to stand up in Parlia- free-kick into the Chelsea box. Matchwinner Woodgate said: in the game and that we were the ward openly in this letter is is handed a two-match ban not keep his hand ment, declare the Nationalist environment Minister George Pullicino (left) has denied kickback claims from former PN activist Jo Said Woodgate glanced the ball onto “I don’t really go up for corners better side. that referees are giving deci- for his dismissal against Reg- behind his back Government as corrupt and Cech’s gloves and it rebounded but I took a chance and was able “the penalty put them back sions against Juve to continue gina. when he was chal- cross the floor. off the spurs defender’s face and to get my head on it and luckily in the game and that turned the ‘punishing’ them for the Cal- the saw red in lenging for the ball Aguis claimed said had been versity board annulled an ex- the irregularity meant that which he said were intended lice affidavit word for word. into the net. it went it. match. the second goal was from ciopoli scandal. stoppages for kicking out at and you saw it was threatening him if he didn’t am taken by Agius for taking a Agius had to graduate a year to tarnish his reputation. He Pullicino has already opened page 4 Robinson then pulled off good “I think we were the best team a set-piece so we are disappoint- this was the first time this Nicola Amoruso. not the referee who cross the floor, or he would ruler with an economic graph later than his colleagues. said he would open legal pro- legal procedures against said saves to deny salomon Kalou and and hopefully we can push on ed. gave it but the lines- disclose an incident as a uni- with him inside the examina- Minister George Pullicino cedures against said and It- over comments he gave to man. versity student, when the uni- tion room. denied said’s allegations, torca, which carried the po- smash tV. “It was always go- Pursuits ing to be close be- cause cup finals Across are like this and it was not a great per- PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT CALLEJA Sudoku 3. Communicating corridors (8) PN hits out at Sant’s ‘rumours’ formance from both 9. Harass (5) 10. Electrically charged atom (3) 11. Toward the stern (3) 12. woman who herds sheep (11) on plans to close Junior College 14. Resembling suds (5) 16. Club-like weapon (4) 17. past tense of stand (5) tHE Nationalist Party yester- Alfred sant and the Labour education. the PN claims the al. these have been denied but surprise if in the coming days 19. Gibberish (6) day said that Alfred sant had Party were spreading rumours, proposal is tantamount to a re- sant just repeats these claims in sant would invent that govern- CHArLOT ZAHrA 20. Belonging to him (3) fabricated claims that govern- “one after the other, every day” peater class. the hope that they are believed. ment “was about to close down 22. Little job (6) ment intended to close down to cover up “his fiasco”, with “First sant invents that the gov- today he invented that govern- MCAst or University”. 23. planet (5) ALtENAttIVA Demokratika (AD) 25. Ruffi an (4) the Junior College sixth Form reference to Labour’s pledge to ernment is going to close down ment would close down the Jun- “It looks like there’s no limit to chairperson Harry Vassallo said that if 26. wash (5) and remove the Junior College introduce a reception class for the Junior Lyceums; then he in- ior College and remove the Jun- what sant and Labour are ready AD was elected to Parliament, it would 28. Tenant under a lease (11) examinations. kindergarten students before vents that the MAtsEC resits ior College examinations.” to invent,” the statement con- bring about a silent revolution in Maltese 30. 21st letter of the Greek alphabet (3) In a statement, the PN said they are admitted to primary are to take place later than usu- the PN said it would be no cluded. 31. period of human life (3) politics. 32. Tugs (5) Addressing party activists during a 33. Direct light of the sun (8) meeting at a hotel in st Julian’s yesterday morning, VassalloFor said ADunique had been set hand-knotted Reporter. Now also on Youtube up to bring forward a change in Malta’s Down political culture. “this challenge is more difficult than,Sudoku say, winning rules area local coun- 1. sailors (4) Solution cilto election.” extremely easy: Fill all empty 2. Underwater missile (7) oriental carpets 4. To come nearer to (8) be publishedHe called onsquares the people so that to thinkthe numbers with 1 5. plot (6) tomorrowtheir mind, ratherto 9 appearwith their once own in eachhearts row, 6. Articles of glass (9) as the other twocolumn main and parties 9x9 are box. leading 7. Located (5) voters to do with their scaremongering 8. Take pleasure in (5) tactics. 13. Emotional outburst (8) Vassallo said AD was an invisible party 15. Defi ciency in quantity (8) as there was no opportunity for its sup- 18. weed plant (9) 8 21. Cooking pan (8) porters to meet in a massTHE meetingFLYING likeCARPET the - OLD RAILWAY TRACK, ATTARD Chess 7 Today’s Weather 24. Clap (7) big parties do. “to this day, I still meet 25. Roof covering (6) 6 new people who tell me that they have 26. sheep cry (5) 8 Solution to wARnInGs: nil Monday5 - Friday 9am - 7pm, Saturday 9am - 3pm been voting AD for the past 18be years.” published 27. Ribbons (5) Vassallo called on the electorate4 to re- 29. Coarse fi le (4) 7 Importers of: Various hand knotted carpets and Kilims, wEATHER: Fine becoming 3 tomorrow flect deeply on theirNon Slip Underlay, Dry and Liquid shampoo. Mobile No. 7953 7664 vote. “the decisions partly cloudy 6 that are taken now will affect2 us for the rest of our lives,” he insisted.1 VIsIBILITY: Good 5 Although for the other parties, the 8 A B C D E F G H March was the be-all and end-all of eve- wInD: Light mainly 4 White had to play and westerly (force 2 Solution to 3 to 3) be published mate in two moves 2 MOSTLY CLOUDY sEA: Generally slight tomorrow 1. Nd7+ Kc8 2. Rxa8# 1 18 ºC / 11 ºC swELL: negligible A B C D E F G H UV INDEX: 4 White to play and mate in two moves Dive in now. www.maltatoday.com.mt daily Last week’s solution 18 maltatodaymaltatoday election election special special | Monday | Monday 25 February 25 February 2008 2008 news Mintoff summons Emmy Bezzina and John Zammit

A beaming emmy bezzina, who will be contesting the general elections, was summoned to il-Perit’s house on Saturday, along with John Zammit, who is also contesting the elections

JAMeS DebONO PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILBERT CALLEJA

tHE man who once provoked the ire of the superpowers by delaying the end of the Helsinki Conference on security and co- operation in Europe by over 50 days, is now busy assembling the lunatic fringe of Maltese politics in his tarxien villa. Alpha Party leader Emmy Bezzina, who is contesting the general election as an inde- pendent candidate, and Lib- eral Democratic Alliance leader John Zammit were summoned on saturday by the 94-year-old Duminku Mintoff at his house in tarxien for an important meeting. the frail former Premier was seen opening his door to the “We already had already pre- two self-appointed party lead- pared a very big flag of our par- ers. ty and we had already informed “We were called for this meet- the European Liberals that we ing by Mintoff… God only were contesting.” knows what he has in mind…I Zammit, a former comrade-in- hope he does not gives me a lot arms of Emmy Bezzina, had split of work to do. He already asked from the Alpha Party which he me to mediate between North co-founded to set up his own and south Korea,” Zammit told Liberal Democratic Party. Maltatoday. Bezzina claimed that he had Zammit explained that this no idea why Mintoff was calling was not the first meeting with the meeting. Mintoff. “I received a message and I “He had asked me not to con- want to verify it…,” Bezzina test the second district on be- replied as the gate opened and half of the Liberal Democratic Mintoff welcomed the two Alliance as he was contesting guests. himself.” Bezzina will be addressing a Zammit is still baffled by meeting along extreme right Mintoff’s failure to present his candidates Norman Lowell next nomination. Friday. Motorcyclist crashes into four cars A 39-year-old motorcyclist from around 11:45am. santa Lucija yesterday crashed the police said the motor- his motorbike into a VW Polo cyclist lost control of his bike, at Kennedy Grove in an inci- crashed into a VW Polo coming dent which involved three other from the opposite direction and cars. then hit a BMW, a toyota Celica the motorcylist suffered frac- and a skoda. tures in the incident in which he the man has been treated for lost control of motorbike, which broken bones and been kept at crashed into four cars. Mater Dei Hospital for observa- the incident happened at tion.