The Nationalist Party has dismissed reports that are currently doing the rounds on the social media, claiming that PN MP Herman Schiavone is to be appointed PN Whip instead of David Agius, who has been elected deputy leader.

According to the reports, Schiavone was the only Delia supporter who had not yet been given some role in the party.

Most of Delia’s strongest backers were elected to or were given important roles within the party as Delia tries to strengthen his grip on a fragmented PN.  Kristy Debono was elected President of the PN General Council. Pierre Portelli was appointed as Executive Chairman of the PN media. Clyde Puli is to become PN Secretary General.

Asked about the claims concerning Schiavone, the PN said no decision had been taken yet and David Agius will retain Whip duties for now.

Schiavone reacted to the claims in a Facebook post.

“A story circulating in the media claims that Adrian Delia chose me as Whip. The impression being given is that he did so because I supported him in the leadership election. When I backed Adrian I did so with great conviction that he was the best candidate we could have had. I do not expect anything in return. I supported him and will keep doing so because I love the party.

I do not need a role to remain shoulder to shoulder with the leader. In the past I served all the party leaders as was asked of me, including when I was asked not to stand for election …. I bowed my head and did as I was asked with full loyalty. Today, as an MP, I will humbly do the same and serve the party leader, the party and my constituents in whatever way and without expecting anything.”

In a second Facebook post, he also said that the whip needs to have certain qualities, including patience. He said that he is not patient, and prefers to work among the people at the PN Headquarters, helping the leader and administration where he can.