Justice Minister Owen Bonnici has thrown his hat into the race for the post of PL Deputy Leader for Party Affairs, while another potential contender, Edward Zammit Lewis, declared he will not contest.
Dr Bonnici is the second candidate to submit his nomination, and will face-off against Economy Minister Chris Cardona. Former PL President Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi has not ruled out contesting.
"In politics we take decisions that make a difference in the lives of families and businesses. Over the past days, I met with PL activists, spoke with PL members and together, we discussed the future of the party. I have decided to offer my name for the post of PL Deputy Leader,” Dr Bonnici said.
“I believe this post must offer stability and dignity to the PL. a few weeks ago we met to change that PL statute. We did this to strengthen ties between government and the party by allowing MPs to be elected PL Deputy Leader for Party Affairs”.
The Deputy Leadership post was vacated by Konrad Mizzi after he resigned due to the Panama Papers scandal. Minister Mizzi was elected after Toni Abela's resignation from the post as he attempted to join the European Court of Auditors.
The election for the Deputy Leadership post will take place between June 9 and 10, with the possibility of running the contest into the next day.
Tourism Minister Edward Zammit Lewis said this evening that he will not be contesting next month's Labour Party deputy leadership race.
On Saturday, Dr Zammit Lewis said that he was still undecided and that he would be taking a decision in the near future.
Dr Zammit Lewis told The Malta Independent:
"My decision is primarily based on the need to remain clearly focused on my work within the government and Parliament.
"Among the many challenges and projects underway, I am determined to ensure that our national airline will have a sustainable and successful future through the important process I have announced recently.
"I have full confidence that the Party delegates will ultimately select the most suitable person to fill the role of Deputy Leader for Party Affairs in order to continue implementing the changes required within the Party while also ensuring that the country remains on the successful and growth path of the last three years for which the Labour Party was elected to government with a resounding mandate in March 2013.
"There is no doubt whatsoever that I will remain at the forefront of the Labour Party and I vow to continue working relentlessly and in the most honest and sincere manner with our leader Dr Joseph Muscat and in the best interest of Malta and Gozo."