Former Labour MP Joseph Farrugia (Il Farell) has been elected to Parliament.

In the fourth count, Mr Farrugia obtained 1,985 votes to Professor Zammit's 1,899. The quota is set at 2,018 votes. 

Professor Zammit's votes were distributed in the fifth count, formally electing Mr Farrugia. 

Professor Farrugia trudged off dejectedly as soon as the fourth count result was announced. Mr Farrugia was not present at the counting hall.

Earlier

Former Labour MP Anthony Zammit is in the lead for the seat vacated by former MP Karmenu Vella. 

The casual election kicked off this morning for Mr Vella's seat, who resigned last week from the House of Representatives to take up his place as European Commissioner in Brussels. 

Professor Zammit has 1,724 votes after the third count. Another former Labour MP Joseph Farrugia is trailing Professor Zammit with 1,388 votes.

Professor Anthony Zammit (Middle)

Robert Henry Bugeja has 788 votes after the third count and will now be eliminated.

Photos by Jonathan Borg