Party supporters celebrate despite appeals for caution

Supporters of the two main parties, particularly from the Nationalist Party, celebrated in the streets yesterday despite repeated appeals for prudence given that the result was too close to call.

The day started with Labour supporters hooting and waving Labour flags as the rumour spread that the Labour Party had won. This was probably sparked off by an analysis which concluded that the low turnout at the polls when compared to previous editions could mean that the PN had lost the majority it had won in 2003.

However, as the sorting started and party agents could see the ballot papers face up, the parties started counting the number one preferences and the resutls started showing that the main parties were neck and neck. This time, the word spread that the PN was likely to win the election with the tally not exceeding 2,000 votes.

This was enough to give good reason to PN supporters to celebrate, despite a number of statements by senior party officials, including general secretary Joe Saliba, that it was too early to celebrate.

Supporters gathered near PN clubs in various towns such as Siġġiewi, Ħamrun and St Julians in the afternoon waving party banners and hooting air horns. Celebrations were also in full swing along the Sliema promenade.

In St Joseph High Street, Ħamrun, supporters gathered by the PN club, situated opposite the MLP club, which was closed. This main thoroughfare was later closed to traffic as more supporters joined the crowd. There was a heavy police presence near the MLP club. Access to the MLP headquarters at Milend, in Ħamrun, and the PN central offices close by at Pietà, was closed to traffic.

Flag and horn vendors grasped the opportunity to cash in on the supporters' entusiasm and mounted stands with their ware at various vantage points.

Minor incidents were reported between rival supporters during carcades in various parts of the island. In all the cases, including one at Żabbar where bottles were used as missiles, the police intervened controlling the situation.

Staff at Mater Dei Hospital were put on alert but no injuries were reported, the police said.