Jean Claude Micallef, an affable presenter on NET, the PN TV station, has expressed his disappointment at not being chosen as a candidate for next year’s MEP elections by the Nationalist Party.

Mr Micallef is also a member of the PN executive.

“I understand the deep regret of many that my name is not included in the list through which I can help the PN get the third seat (in the MEP election). I understand the hurt when a party that you love does not reflect the wants of the people who support it,” Mr Micallef said on the social network Facebook.

The PN announced a tentative list of eight candidates on Monday, but a spokesperson for the party confirmed that the list is not final, and more candidates can be accepted.

Mr Micallef lamented that he is “used to being side-lined,” but he took consolation in the fact that he has always found support from people, who he said he always kept “at the centre of his efforts.”

One former PN MP, Karl Gouder, gave Mr Micallef a scolding for airing his dirty laundry in public.

“Jean your loyalty would have told you not to put up a status like this. I'm sure the commission chose wisely and (in your) intent being a politician you have to learn to bow your head,” Mr Gouder said.

The exchange continued, with Mr Micallef insisting that “a politician is to stand tall always for his people in whatever circumstance and that is what I have always done and will continue doing. Not doing so will lead the people to put you aside and you know that more than anyone.”