I read with interest Daphne Caruana Galizia’s interview with Prime Minister Gonzi. Regrettably, the Prime Minister has once again confirmed that there will be no divorce legislation. His weak rationale as to why he refuses to accept this logical step forward simply stinks of political allegiance to the church.

Dr Gonzi’s weak attempt to scare off people by saying that divorce is “a dangerous path” smacks of the usual church rhetoric.

Unfortunately, he should again learn from Dr Sant scaremongering tactics. I still remember the frightening rumours of a massive invasion of Sicilians as a reason for not joining the EU. In the same manner, the day when divorce will be legislated will be the day Dr Gonzi’s claims will be proved just as fictitious.

The party may have had my vote since I was a teenager because I always viewed the PN as the more liberal progressive type of party. Now I see that those days have been over for quite a while.

Dr Gonzi fails to realise that in the next general election the government will be judged on many counts. He may bring in 10 smart cities, balance the budget or even strike oil for all I care; it won’t affect where my vote goes this time. He fails to realise that people do not just want to speak about issues on the government’s agenda but also about issues he conveniently steers clear of such as divorce. I find it fascinating that few journalists ever ask the Prime Minister about this subject (sic) in spite of the public debate. The Prime Minister may not realise this shortsighted vision and attitude is edging him into the same alley that Alfred Sant found himself in three years ago when addressing the EU issue.

As it was crystal clear back then to all those pro-EU Labourites that voting for the PN was the only road to Europe, it is crystal clear now that only by sending Dr Gonzi to the opposition will we ever see the introduction of a much needed divorce legislation.

Joseph Gauci

BIRKIRKARA