Former Nationalist Party MP and shadow Minister Jason Azzopardi has announced his retirement from politics after failing to get elected to Parliament in Tuesday’s casual election.

In a sentimental social media post, Azzopardi said today marks an end to his 24 years as an MP and his 34 years as an active member in the Nationalist Party.

Azzopardi announced that he will now be focusing on his professional life after putting it aside for so long. “However, I will remain available to anyone who genuinely needs my help even though I am no longer going to remain a public figure. Helping those in need is an integral part of my being and, I cannot abandon it.”

Reminiscing on the past, Azzopardi said he has been active in the PN since he was 17 years old. “I cannot thank God enough for all that he has done with me throughout my years of service.”

Azzopardi was elected to Parliament in 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013 and 2017, serving in both the opposition side of the House as well as in government. Azzopardi served in the roles Parliamentary Secretary and Minister.

“These experiences have been my way of helping people the best way I can. I met with thousands of families, and I intend to keep listening to them and helping them.”

Azzopardi said that he is proud to have always retained his integrity, despite attacks and lies from near and far, and "at the same time I put my life in jeopardy despite being deliberately isolated, and isolated from within."

In a final plight Azzopardi said that although the PN did not get elected, eventually the time would come when “the force of righteousness” would prevail.