The President of Malta Marie Louise Coleiro Preca today called for a process of reconciliation after condemning the 'lack of respect and dignity' between politicians and people alike during the general election campaign.

In an address to the nation after the polls closed, the President said that "the values of compassion, solidarity, and community were lost."

The lack of respect and dignity that individuals have shown to one another, she said, removes their humanity.

The President emphasised that while she had continuously raised awareness concerning abuse on social media, particularly during her Republic Day speech, the abuse had grown over recent weeks.

"What started in the media, continued at work, schools, entertainment venues;between neighbours, friends, and even family."

"We all know that the damage spreads rapidly."

She said that she believed that the disrespect the population had shown one another over the past weeks meant that the country had 'lost as a nation.'

"We have lost a sense of communal dialogue."

The President said that in the coming days the population will be divided but called on the political parties, institutions, workplaces, and families to show respect to one another regardless of the election result.

"I want to see people returning to open dialogue as soon as possible, which is the basis for a healthy democracy."

She admitted that she had no illusion that people would immediately forget this election, however she appealed for reconciliation.

"The language must stop being aggressive and abusive."

The President said that she expected the leaders of their respective political parties to take the first steps in the right direction.

She said she was proud of those Maltese and Gozitans, who treated one another with respect and dignity regardless of their political beliefs.

"Let us not forget, that whatever the outcome, we remain one people and nation."

"Let us unite again, because only in unity can we achieve peace and sustainable prosperity for our nation."