The 15th legislature since Independence started this morning with an event during which MPs took their oath of office before being addressed by President Myriam Spiteri Debono.

The day began with a solemn Veni Creator Spiritus mass at St John's Co-Cathedral, presided over by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi, attended by the newly elected members of Parliament.

Following the spiritual proceedings, the atmosphere shifted to the political heart of the nation at the Parliament building. MPs and their guests walked up Republic Street towards the Parliament building.

At 11am, the inaugural session commenced, presided over by the Clerk of the House, Eleonor Scerri, who read the official proclamation and general election results.

A central highlight of the morning was the appointment of the new Speaker of the House. Prime Minister Robert Abela proposed Carmelo Abela for the role, and the veteran MP vacated his parliamentary seat to embrace this institutional position. Following his election by simple majority, the House turned to the appointment of the Deputy Speaker, with Opposition Leader Alex Borg nominating Nationalist MP Bernard Grech. Both were unanimously approved.

The legislative body then proceeded to the formal swearing-in ceremony. Prime Minister Robert Abela took his oath first, followed by Opposition Leader Alex Borg, Cabinet members, and the remaining MPs in alphabetical order.

In, all, 77 MPs took their oath, with Janice Abela Chetcuti and Cressida Galea to take theirs at the first opportunity as they were not present for today's ceremony.