Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne said he "has sworn that the Nationalist Party will not govern for as long has he lives".

"When I die, they can write on my tombstone that the PN were never elected. Instead of RIP, they can write RIPN," Fearne told a crowd at an activity he organised as part of his campaign to become Labour Party leader and Prime Minister.

Video of the event was uploaded to Facebook on Monday and quickly drew criticism from many who believe that a future possible Prime Minister should be more careful with his words, especially at a time when the country is hurt.

Fearne is contesting for the post together with Robert Abela.

In the video, the hopeful for prime minister can be seen telling the audience: “They got offended, so let’s say it again. In 2008 I vowed, and today I will vow it with you – for as long as I am alive, the Nationalists will not be in government. And when I die, they can write on my grave that the PN were never elected. Instead of RIP, they can write RIPN.”

But then he did say also that this is the time for national unity...

The event also featured the participation of MP Silvio Parnis, who said that "Labourites come first, second and third..." and Labour stalwart Manwel Cuschieri, who said he was always thought that his only "enemy is the Nationalist Party."