Falzon likely to announce decision this week

The Labour Party's deputy leader for party affairs, Michael Falzon, said when contacted yesterday he will be officially announcing his decision to contest the election for party leader later this week.

MEP Joseph Muscat is the only other contender in the leadership race so far.

Others likely to put their name forward include former deputy party leader George Abela who said on Monday he was still interested in submitting his nomination.

MP Anġlu Farrugia, a contender for the post in 2003, said he was still very interested in the contest but has not yet decided what to do. One reason why he was delaying the decision was to see the report analysing the party's defeat in the general election. Asked how this could affect his decision, Dr Farrugia said he wanted his decision to be in the party's interest so, first, he had to see why the party had lost.

Another name being floated is that of former Education Minister Evarist Bartolo. He said yesterday he has not yet made a definite decision but was meeting delegates. His decision would be based on the outcome of these meetings.

There was enough to decide, he said, and he preferred to meet delegates and discuss with them what should be done.

Former Tourism Minister Karmenu Vella, another possible candidate, said he would rather not contest but would be ready to offer his services to the party's leader or leadership.

Former party general secretary Marie Louise Coleiro, who has also expressed an interest in the contest, could not be contacted.