CNi chairman steps down

Albert Leone Ganado yesterday announced his resignation as chairman of the Campaign for National Independence (CNi) and told a press conference he respected the people's sovereign decision over European Union membership.

Prof Leone Ganado said he was resigning partly for personal reasons, but also because he felt membership was an irrevocable step.

"One now has to see how to work within the fold of the EU. I was asked by CNi to reconsider my decision and I made it clear I would continue to help in the campaign though not as chairman," he said.

CNi activist and former chairman Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici has once again taken charge of the group. He said that although he respected Prof. Leone Ganado's opinion, he disagreed that membership was irrevocable.

Dr Mifsud Bonnici's chairmanship of CNi will be confirmed when CNi holds a general meeting at the beginning of next month but he expressed the hope he will only occupy the post temporarily.

Dr Mifsud Bonnici said that although he respected the will of the 146,000 voters in the April 12 general election who opted for the Nationalist Party and, hence, EU membership, he also respected the opinion of the 134,000 electors who voted against membership in that election.

"In a democracy the will of the majority is implemented but the majority has to respect the minority's will."

Dr Mifsud Bonnici said he disagreed with Prof. Leone Ganado's statement that membership was irrevocable because in a democracy the people are also given the opportunity to change their opinion. No political party was expected to renounce its belief after losing an election, he said.

"So we do not expect that those who voted against membership would not do their best, through democratic means, to obtain a majority in favour of their ideals," he said.

Dr Mifsud Bonnici said with membership Malta's sovereignty would be limited.

Asked about his role in Dom Mintoff's Front Maltin Inqumu, Dr Mifsud Bonnici said there was no reason why CNi and the front should not continue to cooperate.

CNi had suspended its activities during the election campaign to distance itself from politics and enable members with different views to decide freely.