It is Wednesday afternoon and I am penning this article, the day when the Nationalist Party will have its new party leader.  That means that strictly speaking the leader of the Nationalist Party is not yet appointed at the time of writing, though I have no doubt that Simon Busuttil will make it, and I sincerely augur him success in his new mission.  It is no easy task that lies before him, but knowing Simon and judging by his character, he will put in all his efforts to give an excellent result.  Simon was there during the turbulent times.  Simon could have taken the easy way out and retained his seat as an MEP.  We must now all rally behind him and follow the example given by the other three gentlemen (and I have purposely used capital letters). 

I feel obliged to thank the four of them – four contestants, four gentlemen.

Ray Bugeja, a businessmen, a person who showed genuine interest in helping the Nationalist Party to move forward, so much so, that irrespective of losing out to the other three contestants, he made it clear that he wanted to be involved and to share his ideas.  I watched him closely at the General Council when he conceded defeat.  I assume that he was disappointed – after all, who wouldn’t be disappointed?  Let’s be honest, everyone contests to win!  But the point remains that he showed no anger or bitterness towards the other contestants.  

Francis, another gentleman.  I am referring to him with his first name because I have known him since my teenage years.  I have never heard him ill-speak of anyone and whenever, he needed to criticize the party, he poised his criticism with grace.  If there is any person that merits a medal for loyalty and dignity, then it is him. 

Coming to the other gentleman, Mario de Marco, distinguished, focused and composed, as always.  I was particularly impressed with the fact that he had prepared his message in advance.  I am sure that he had another message ready in case for the alternative scenario.  That says something about his character – actually it says a lot.  It shows that he is a person that never takes anything forgranted.  It shows that he is a person who prepares himself for every eventuality.  I was also touched by two phrases which he said - “the time for contests is over” and “the councillors have spoken and I respect their decision”.  He then moved on and expressed his unconditional loyalty to Simon Busuttil and withdrew from the race – what does this show?  Nothing, but absolute loyalty to the Nationalist Party.

We have other elections ahead of us – Deputy Leader, Secretary General and others.  The good spirit shown by Simon, Mario, Francis and Ray should be maintained.  We must face the future as a united front, look ahead and move forward, away from the recent electoral disappointment.  It is useless crying over spilt milk – now is the time to pull up our socks again.   

Dr Marthese Portelli

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