Almost two weeks have passed since the new secretary general of the Nationalist Party was elected. Dr Paul Borg Olivier garnered 68 per cent of the votes. By the way, 68 per cent out of 60 votes, which is 41 votes. Yes, my friends, the secretary general of the party in government was elected by a mere 41 votes. In the Nationalist Party not even the councillors of the general council are trusted to choose and decide for the election of the secretary general and other administrative posts, let alone their members.
I am stating these facts since some months ago the media and propaganda machine of the PN tried to put the Malta Labour Party in bad light since only delegates had the right to choose the leadership of the party. This is also the case of the Nationalist Party since it is only the councillors who have the right to vote and elect their leader and deputy.
Other opinion writers followed the guidelines of the PN propaganda machine. I proudly say that today the Malta Labour Party is the most democratic and open party on the island since all the main positions are chosen by almost 900 delegates, which is no small number. All the posts in the administration of the party next month will be chosen by 900 delegates and not just by a bunch of 60 people, as was the case two weeks ago within the PN.
In my opinion these are the double standards that the PN is an expert in promulgating. It seems that if something is good for the PN the same thing is not acceptable for the MLP. I hope that the PN stops interfering in the internal affairs of the Malta Labour Party and mind its own business.
To me it seems that the famous Macbeth quote – Look like the innocent flower, but be the serpent under it – is very appropriate to the Nationalist Party.
More double standards
The issue of divorce is always a hot issue in Malta. Maybe today there are more people who are favouring the introduction of divorce in our legislation. This is so because the problems that some couples are going through are known to everyone and divorce is seen by a good percentage as a solution. I am not going to judge anyone but I still have my doubts.
However, divorce in Malta is recognised if acquired from a foreign country. This is another form of double standard since those who can afford to go abroad and get divorce are recognised under Maltese law but those who do not have the means are not given the opportunity. If someone can answer this fact I really appreciate.
Since joining the EU until 18 June we had 115 divorces that were conferred to Maltese nationals from law courts in EU member states. Is this fair? In my opinion this is not, since it is a form of discrimination against those who do not have the financial means.
Ceramics at Fort St Angelo
The surroundings were fascinating to say the least. A slight breeze complementing the evening and the company was good. And the exhibition? The exhibition was marvellous and was a good opportunity to get to know and appreciate the artistic knowledge and heritage of civilisations different from the western world. On 3 July, in the Magisterial Palace at Fort St Angelo, an exhibition on antique Chinese ceramics was inaugurated. About 400 pieces are on display till 20 July. This exhibition is being organised by the Sovereign Military Order of Malta and is dedicated to the memory of the late Grand Master Fra Andrew Bertie.
Apart from the Chinese ceramics one can also admire the restoration works that the Order is doing. Little by little Fort St Angelo is being transformed into a gem. It was a good decision when Parliament agreed to give the upper part of Fort St Angelo to the Order of Malta. It is a pity that the way leading to the fort is still in a shabby state. Well, maybe with some effort from all those concerned even this can be solved.
Winter Moods
The Winter Moods concert was fantastic. The Maltese band last Wednesday gave a fantastic two-hour show at the Valletta Waterfront. This was a confirmation, if there was any need, that the Maltese do have talent which can well compare with foreign artists. The crowd appreciated the show and the presence of about 7,000 people was something to be proud of. Well done to Ivan and the whole band and also to those who helped make this event possible. Of course, talent needs the back-up of others to make dreams come true.
Carmelo Abela is Deputy Speaker and Labour main spokesperson for industry and foreign investment
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