Updated: Muscat wins endorsement of European socialists' head

David Gatt

May 27th 2008, 04:09

@George Azzopardi

I agree in part with you. I do think that MLCP is a valid individual. But not as leader. She would fit perfectly as Deputy Leader for Party Affairs. She knows how to gather people round and she's quite determined in her speeches.

But as a leader we need something more. We need a man with a vision and who's energetic enough to go through with the challenge. He also needs to be a person that love Labour and who people can trust into. Joseph Muscat is the man who can do perfectly as leader.

Time will tell.

David Gatt

May 27th 2008, 04:04

@Angelo Vassallo
If you're still thinking about the 1981 election I think you're due for a heavy update. The year is 2008.

michael catania

May 26th 2008, 21:06

re Mr.Angelo Vassallo
Just like your party when you have no reasonable argument you resort to personal insults. Why is it that the likes of you always stop at the year 1981, if you had any intellegence you should go further back i.e to 1930's. On the other hand your world must have begun in 1981 so you were still in nappies then and as such you were brought up with all the benefits of MLP Social Services and for that you should be thanking you lucky stars.

George Azzopardi

May 25th 2008, 18:22

Mr. Schults has already given suggestions to the Maltese people last March at the Luxol Grounds….with no success.

I do not have a vote for the 5th June, although I am sure of what I believe. Our party needs a leader who bleeds labour.

Unfortunately the most promenades two are the most not required for the MLP.

Joseph you are on a good track for future leader. Today, if you really love the MLP please continue with the job you are doing at the European Parlament.

George, no please, not now. I have to see and feel your come back first.

I suggest the delegates to Vote for the Lady, Marie Louise Coleiro Preca.

She knows exactly what she wants and how to do it. Her election results explain.
She knows exactly what she believes.
She is a lady, and our party requires a lady to do the MLP ONE PARTY.

George Azzopardi

Ben Grech

May 25th 2008, 11:42

What s wrong with such an endorsement? If the head of the european socialists thinks highly of Joseph Muscat, what s all the raucous about? The other candidates all have people endorsing them, as did Gonzi himself from the then prime minister Eddie Fenech Adami.

Angelo Vassallo

May 24th 2008, 20:40

@Mr. Michael Catania

I cannot see the hatred that is coming out of us Nationalists. Even ONE News did not broadcast and censored what Mr. Martin Shultz had to say about our most beloved DrJosephMuscat. As I said before, and this many agree with me, what Mr. Martin Shultz did is disgustingly UNETHICAL, UNPRINCIPLED, DISRUBTABLE and so on and so forth.

And what on earth have the university students have got to do with Schulz’s visit?

Since Mr. Catania mentioned them, now we know that, the poor show by DrAlfredSant in that instance is one of the main reasons that helped the MLP lose the last general elections and this comes out from the report (full of lies, as per Michael Falzon of the MLP) that was issued by the party about their third consecutive electoral defeat.

And by saying that the Nationalists stole the last general election makes you simply RIDICULOUS Mr. Catania. Were you in Malta in 1981? Did you ever know that the MLP governed Malta for more than five years with just 49% support of the Maltese population?

Again Mr. Catania, do not be ridiculous.

Joe Vella

May 24th 2008, 16:54

@ Vella James

To cite Edward Kennedy endorsement of Obama to Justify the endorsement of Joseph Muscat by Martin Schulz is totally ridiculous. There is no comparison between the two instances.

Firstly, Edward Kennedy is American like Obama; and not a FOREIGNER as is Martin Schulz in this case.

Secondly, Dr. Joseph Muscat is running to be Leader of the MLP; and

Thirdly, Martin Schulz endorsement could only be justified of Dr. Joseph Muscat was running to occupy any position within the European Socialist Movement.

If, Dr. Joseph Muscat have any leadership qualities he should have never sought nor accepted such an endorsement.

Michael Borg

May 24th 2008, 15:54

So the nationalists are trying to, as usual, make forget what they have done. Is it possible that all these 'intelligent' nationalists forgot what happened in the so called 'tellieqa bejn il- hbieb'? Just ask John Dalli. Enough said. Nice try to make people forget that this election was stolen with more of 10,000 votes bought.

Sergio Galea Vincenti

May 24th 2008, 14:57

What a lot of people are not considering is that no one in the MLP has commented when any of the candidates - but especially JM and GA - opted to field fellow Labourites to endorse their bid.

Endorsements can backfire: The Maltese saying goes 'Ma min rajtek, xebbahtek' but we all know that it does really, always work like that. Example? The endorsement of sorts by Dom Mintoff of Dr. George Abela...

Some candidates have chosen not to seek public endorsements in order to present an image of being 'their own person' - which is a wise strategy in a way and is certainly more respectable than the charades we see in the US and other countries.

On another matter, for those who have chosen to criticise Dr. Michael Falzon because of this letter, they should note that the letter was signed by Dr. Falzon - as is clearly stated in the article - on behalf of the other three candidates as well.

Likewise, on commenting on the MLP's document on the last election result, I would wait to read it in detail and see the reactions of any people mentioned in the report.

C. Ebejer

May 24th 2008, 13:54

I'd like to ask Mr. Schulz: Does he know that the person (Joseph Muscat) he heartily endorsed (in my opinion unethically since he represents the Party of European Socialist) ,
was one of the main people in the MLP that was anti EU before the MLP did a U-Turn (such as is its nature since A.S & Clique became at the helm)?

George Vella also endorses J.M and since he is part of the LOSERS and U-TURNS, will J.M do more U-Turns if he is elected as MLP leader.

'Remeber Svizzera fil-Mediterran'!!!!!!

Ray Borg

May 24th 2008, 13:14

Why all this fuss? We have the President of the Party of European Socialist group in the European Parliament endorsing one of his colleagues with whom he collaborates very closely. I think that Mr Schulz would have gladly endorsed any of the other four contenders if he or she was an MEP like Joseph Muscat.

Elementary my dear Watsons!

michael catania

May 24th 2008, 11:47

WOW the hate that is coming out of the conservatives mind is unbelievable. So Joe Muscat is endorsed by Schulz and ONE did not broadcast this endorsement. What,s the big deal. In my opinion ONE had to keep level playing field (something the conservatives has not the tiniest of clue what it is). As to some of their comments, is this the best these conservatives can come out with. If thats the case Maltese standard of education has really gone downhill. Look at the behaviour of some students at at universaty.Finally if thes conservatives wish to be constructive I suggest to all these KNOWALLS TO CENSURE the Goverment for all the BACKTRACKING since stealing the last election.

A.Vella

May 24th 2008, 11:37

I am looking forward to see which candidate will bring over the pope for endorsment. I am sure that will be an even greater hit with the average delegate.

Power at all costs....

Sergio Galea Vincenti

May 24th 2008, 11:07

Any confidence I had in a transparent leadership bid have now been flushed down the toilet... First, Dr. Abela with his selective memoires from the 1996-1998, then with this sort of crap...

Martin Shulz would have been very wise indeed had he shut up and not tried to involve himself in the workings of the MLP... but, honestly, I wonder who really approached him... If it was Dr. Muscat or someone from the 'old guard'...

Let's wait and see but - I repeat - this campaign is now beyond a farce.

Kevin Bonello

May 24th 2008, 10:39

It does seem that you are living in a vacuum. It is disappointing how small-minded this country is in its political strategy. I think some of these reactions reek of frivolous and desperate attack because it is in the normal run of things that endorsements take place from within or outside the party. Martin Schultz is merely backing Joseph Muscat, the candidate who he has a working relationship with. Why don't the other candidates bring on the endorsements?

Maria Dolores Fenech

May 24th 2008, 09:42

It was reported on Smash TV that Net TV was given the exclusivity to report/filming Schultz's arrival.
I would have thought that if one would want to give exclusivity (since it has to do with the MLP leadership race), it would have been One TV, although in my opinion no-one should distinguish between one TV station and another. Is this why One News did not report it, because it was left out? Why, may I ask, was the news of a European Socialists' head arrival to Malta was reported exclusiely on Net TV and not at least on PBS? It doesn't make sense?
Would it be that Dr Muscat is trying to give the impression that now he is truly Pro-EU?

Angelo Vassallo

May 24th 2008, 09:33

JJ. Cardona wrote that DrJosephMuscat (this is how One television is describing our dear beloved Joseph) is our hope and our future.

I simply cannot see any hope and future with a person who is an identical replica (most probably cloned) of DrAlfredSant.

Actually we will be very much worse off. We are going to have a situation were the Leader of the MLP and the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament is not the same person , but as they are cloned, there will be two of them incorporated in one person. Poor MLP

Wistin Schembri

May 24th 2008, 08:41

@ Dominic Fenech
What is your third question please?

@ MLP king makers
I would have never imagined that when you held that "l-MLP huwa l-partit taz-zghir" you were referring to age. You can't stand people who dare to challenge you and define loyalty as being blindfolded.

Kevin Zammit

May 24th 2008, 08:00

@Alfred

Thanks for that reminder. Funny ... but man what a clown! And to think he was re-elected.

We're not that bad after all but if we do not have decent parties that endorse ALL voters, we can easily end up in the same situation. Let the MLP be the first like GA suggested and enough with this internal politiking.

Mario Gauci

May 24th 2008, 07:36

If this isn't a clear sign of influencing the outcome of the MLP Leadership race than I do not know what is!
I do not think that it was fair to all the other contenders and Dr. Muscat is an opportunist. I believe that the report that has been leaked already regarding the successive electoral defeats of the MLP should also take into consideration Dr. Muscat's role in it as well.

Yes I do believe that get Dr. Muscat will give us another five year term of Gonzi in 2013!

JOHN SCERRI

May 24th 2008, 07:19

Nothing wrong in endorsing a candidate contesting an election. This is my opinion.

Is this approved by the electoral commission of MLP for all candidates with reference to abiding to a level playing field?

Is this approved by the statute of the Party? Is there any clause in the MLP statute confirming that endorsment of a contesting candidate may be carried out by local or foreign individuals although such an endorsement may put other contestants at a disadavntage?

A. Sicluna

May 24th 2008, 07:18

What would Dr. Muscat have said if George, Michael, louise or Varist invited Mr. Schulz to endorse them instead? I'm sure he would have gone nuts. This is simply unfair towards the other 4. Shameful indeed. Don't forget that Mr. Schulz is the President of the European Socialists. Why endorse the candidate you know, when most probably you never ever met the others? This is unjust...

One News did not air the press conference Schultz and Muscat gave because it's simply unethical to do so.

Patrick Vella

May 24th 2008, 04:17

George Orwell in his book 'Animal Farm" wrote:

" All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than others "

Any other comments are .............................. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mark A Portelli

May 24th 2008, 01:52

well said D Fenech. I agree with you.

Christina Borg

May 24th 2008, 01:21

This is the best one so far in an amazing soap opera of love, hate, suspense and vendettas of ‘rival cliques’ (ref. MLP Electoral Defeat 2008 Analysis Report). Imagine our country led by these people …

Abel Abela

May 24th 2008, 00:41

The Wise Ones are None the Wiser after all.
In their infinite Wisdom, Labour delegates definitely don’t need to be told what to do by 19,000 MLP members, let alone share their voting rights with them; BUT OF COURSE the Wisest One has discovered that they definitely need Martin Schulz from Strasbourg to instruct them on WHO TO VOTE FOR on 5 June.

saviour cachia

May 23rd 2008, 23:27

Welcome Mr. Schulz. It is a pity you did not come to Malta prior to the EU referendum in 2003. Perhaps then you would have helped us solve the mess we were in by convincing our leaders, whom some of them happen to be sponsor of the person you now elected to endorse, that the only way for Malta was European Union membership. Perhaps you would have saved the disappointment we all gullible labourites felt then when it was declared that partnership won and not the EU membership.
Certainly that would have been a great step forward, five weeks ahead of a general election in which quite a number of thousands of labourites voted for the Nationalist Party and not the party they supported to affirm that for them Malta was first and foremost through European Union membership and not partnership.That might perhaps have tipped the scale in favour of a labour govern against an already fatigue NP administration.
Unfortunately Mr. Schulz you stayed at home and we labourites missed the boat, in 2003 and 2008, despite the success achieved by the MLP deputies in the Europarlament.

Edwin Formosa

May 23rd 2008, 22:57

I am sure that the Labour delagates will choose Joe Muscat .(New Star OF Maltese Politics) as Leader of the MLP thus making most Labourites and all Nationalists happy.

Alfred Farrugia

May 23rd 2008, 22:23

@ Chris Borg: Dear Mr. Borg, why don’t you suggest to Dr. Muscat to seek the endorsement of the President of PES, Poul Nyrup Rasmussen, to complement the PSE endorsement, if the Labour delegates are not convinced of his merits? Were did you see the reference to PM of Malta in my suggestion. I am not convinced of his credentials as a Labour leader, with all due respect to him, no matter what Schultz and Rasmussen might say. The Labour Party needs a mature leader like Dr. George Abela.

Has Dr. Muscat seen Berlusconi’s exchange with Schultz on YouTube?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bPqaqGJ5Js

If Dr. Muscat is interested in the future you may wish to draw his attention to the vacancy of PES Deputy Secretary General which closes on 12 June.

http://www.pes.org/downloads/Notice_of_vacancies_Deputy_SG.pdf

J Cardona

May 23rd 2008, 22:16

How sour are the grapes.

Joseph you are our hope and our future.

The groaners seem to have passed their expiry date.

Edwin Formosa

May 23rd 2008, 22:13

U R right Mr Martin Shulz. Joseph Muscat is a deeply convinced pro-European (ta Kajjin) In fact he is 'made in Brussels'. And if you have said that in Malta when you were his age you would have been sociallistically labled 'indhil barrani'.

Vell James

May 23rd 2008, 22:01

Joseph did a good job in Europe and Schulz come to support him. What is wrong with that?!! I see nothing wrong.

The other candidates? They can bring their own supporters. It is a true race - who works harder wins.

I still fancy Abela for the role - but after the race I will support whoever wins - because all 5 have very good qualities

chris borg

May 23rd 2008, 21:59

and they say the Party machine is with 'iz-zghir"!....."One TV this evening did not broadcast what Mr Schulz said about Dr Muscat and did not carry footage showing Mr Schulz"

Wistin Schembri

May 23rd 2008, 21:50

@Frans Sammut

The most telling word you used is "irrevocably".

Now I understand what Dr Sant meant when he said that he "resigned irrevocably"!

Wistin Schembri

May 23rd 2008, 21:42

Now I understand MLP's strong stand against foreign intereference in the 80's! It was Mintoff's and KMB's foresight.

By the way, hasn't Mr Schultz told us last January that Dr Sant will be elected as Prime Minister and that he is the best leader?

Can anybody send a copy of Dr Joe Muscat's productions 'Made in Brussels' (aired on Super 1 in 2002) to Dr Schulz? Pity that few joined Dr Sant and Dr Muscat in believing that patnership won in March 2003! Dr Shulz would have joined ic-celelebrazzjonijiet tar-rebha tal-partnership.

It must be Labour!

Frans Sammut

May 23rd 2008, 21:27

May I repeat what I said in an earlier contribution? I still believe EU partnership would have suited our small but proud (formerly sovereign and independent) country than full membership. The current Government is finding this out only now: ponder the chance we lost to host the Euro-Med secretariat. The only reason given was that as an EU country our neighbours do not trust us as being independent enough to be useful to the Region. Yet, being realistic, as opposed to many obsessive observers of the Maltese scene, I am convinced we are now IN the EU without any chance of getting out. So, we must do the best we can. Among other things we need leaders who know the ropes. Young leaders who know how the EU works and how to make our new situation profitable, not only to the bums (those who are keen only on gleaning funds for themselves and their close relatives and friends) but for the whole nation. This is what I believe and these are the reasons why I am convinced that the best leader to take Malta forward in present and FUTURE circumstances must be a young man with fresh ideas.

Dominic Fenech

May 23rd 2008, 21:18

@ all those who felt addressed: I just asked "what does Mr Schulz know about the qualities of the other leadership contenders?" The answer is nothing. So to the next question: who brought him over? After that will come another question.

A Abela

May 23rd 2008, 21:17

I believe the other candidates should call on Mr. Schulz to resign.

Sue Bartolo

May 23rd 2008, 21:10

well done Dr Muscat! I have always been hesitant to vote labour because I always feared that labour would repeat the same mistake of 2003, despite being socialist at heart.

Today, you convinced me that, if you are elected as labour leader, Labour would be a pro-european party and I will, finally, be free to vote labour again.

but what continues to surprise me is that many, within the labour party (as it is evident here in this blog) remain anti-eu. what is wrong of having Mr Schulz endorsing one of the candidates? I truly cannot understand why some persons are so critical of his visit to malta.

I wish I was a delegate, because I would have definately voted for Joseph! And my appeal to all delegates is.......if you want people like me (who are floaters or new voters) to vote again labour, or vote labour for the first time, vote for Joseph!

D. Micallef

May 23rd 2008, 20:06

i find some of the comments below quite amusing. Schulz's endorsement can only be interpreted as a positive certificate for Dr. Muscat and the results he obtained in the past 4 years. I hope Dr. Muscat gets the mandate on the 5th of June to lead the Labour Party.

Francis Attard

May 23rd 2008, 20:05

How relieving, Mr.Schulz!!!! Ignorant me, who doesn't even know where the main entrance to our university is (where is it, anyway?), have been a pro-EU even pre-2004. In fact, I didn't succumb to the ridiculous advice of the then leader of the opposition and voted in favour of EU membership. Mr.Martin Shulz, you could have spared a little phrase to thank all those who, by there vote in favour of EU membership, contributed for your having a good helper to solve problems of the socialist group in the European Parliament. They really deserve it, considering the fact that on the morrow of the referendum, the then leader of the MLP irresponsibly claimed that his partnership bid has won.
I am not going to enter into the merits of whether your support to Dr.Muscat was ethical or not, I do not really care, but at least now Malta can rejoice because we have a confirmation that, by having Dr.Muscat as leader of the MLP, all its inhabitants will be united as a pro-EU supporters. Under the past MLP leader half of the population was not sure whether to proclaim itself pro or anti EU. And Mr.Shultz, I am not kidding.

chris borg

May 23rd 2008, 20:04

@alfred farrugia : no he wont Mr Farrugia. This is THE new wave of politicians, young and energetic and a cut from the rest. remember the "intervention whatever" bill? as Joseph said, he is not interested in the past but in the future. His credentials as PM of Malta rest in your own message.

@Bocca : Please, do try and get a life

Johnny Cardona

May 23rd 2008, 19:22

This was a remarkable endorsement. For a person like Schulz to come down to Malta to support a candidate must surely be a positive sign for Muscat, the MLP and the country itself.

Lara Vassallo

May 23rd 2008, 19:21

What's wrong with this leadership race? Is it rigged, really?

Yes, it is very obvious that Muscat will be the outright winner, for reasons that are also obvious: the delegates like him best.

This is not just perception, this was confirmed in a survey among the delegates.

Charles Camilleri

May 23rd 2008, 18:51

Malcolm Seychell you seem so sure of Casa and Busuttil do the same as Muscat. it seems you are one of those who put people on the same shelve. No one can foretell the future and that includes you Malcolm. i am sure that both Casa and Busuttil are matured enough and know wha t prudence and fair play means and would not stoop so low especially when the contest for the leadership is amongst people of the same party. No wonder that labour's conduct in the general election went beyond the limit that one expects in civilised country.

R CARABOTT

May 23rd 2008, 18:41

Isn't this a case of "Hbieb tal-Hbieb"?????

G. Sammut

May 23rd 2008, 18:40

First they accuse Labour of being anti-EU, now they accuse it of identifying with Europe or, rather that the EU should not identify itself with Labour. There is a great Maltese saying: "Hawwadni ha nifmek" What a sad spin by the great PN gurus. They say that they have an interest in seeing to it that a proper leader is chosen for the MLP because it is in the interest of Malta to have a strong opposition...but it is NOT ok to disagree with anything they say or do; it is NOT ok to stand up and be counted as equal partners; it is NOT ok to fight against corruption; it is NOT ok for a foreign political figure to show his support for a colleague; it is NOT ok have hopes and dreams for a great European Malta where justice and equality prevails. Please, give us your rule book so that we may learn "The Way".

j borg

May 23rd 2008, 18:35

Shame....shame....shame... is this the "generazzjoni rebbieha"? .... not even respecting the 'comarades' in the same party.... just imagine those who are not..... some would claim that only future will tell ,...but "il buongiorno se vede dal mattino"!!!!

Victor Dimech

May 23rd 2008, 18:17

If Dr Muscat is so good for the European Socialist Party why waste him over here to lead the MLP perhaps for another electoral defeat?

Abel Abela

May 23rd 2008, 18:14

Joseph Muscat: why did you bring Martin Schulz to Malta to speak on your behalf?
Need I point out to someone with 'European credentials' like yours that chairpersons of political parties in the European parliament are expected to show impartiality?
Martin Schulz represents 216 MEPs from all over the EU as chairman of the socialist PES parliamentary group. Today's official endorsement by the chairman throws the weight of the PES behind one candidate - ONE out of FIVE - in the Maltese Labour leadership contest. The president of the second largest party in the European parliament was ill-advised at best to get involved by taking sides in the leadership election of a PES member party.
Is this the 'European' way of doing politics? Is this the future that beckons for your 'Generazzjoni Rebbieha'?

A Muscat

May 23rd 2008, 17:41

@ Frans Sammut
You have a trait of supporting losers.

Come next elections floating voters will readily choose Gonzi again over Muscat who is perceived as an opportunist adjusting his EU policies for convenience rather than conviction.

Age has nothing to do with this. Fenech Adami beat a much younger Alfred Sant in 1998 and in 2003.

But than you still prefer partnership to membership so you must be completely out of touch with the views of the general electorate on whose preferences the new leader will stand or fall come 2013.

Adrian Attard

May 23rd 2008, 17:16

@Domenic Fenech

I`m glad to notice that you broke the silence after such a long time, but isn`t it obvious that you are only interested to see george abela as a leader? what if george abela is not elected, will you remain socialist....or will you follow the same path of george abela ( like he did for 10 years)

I see nothing wrong in having such a person from a european institution endorsing joseph muscat! don`t you think, that if any of the other candidates had the same good relationship with any important person like Mr Schulz would have done the same move? I think so at least!

The most positive thing about this event is that we are now assured that if joseph muscat will be elected as labour leader, we will definitely have a pro-european party. There is no doubt that this is what everyone is hoping for!

Albert Gauci Cunningham

May 23rd 2008, 17:10

I think Joseph Muscat has been a very good MEP, infact I think that the 2 best MEP's are Dr.Simon Busuttil (PN) and Joseph Muscat (MLP) the worst (always in my opinion) is Attard montalto (sorry!!) .............

...................but couldn't Mr.Shulz have waited a bit more before coming to Malta and passing such comments right in the middle of a "campaign" ? people out here (outside the Glass Palace I mean!!) are not naive and stupid and this has all the smells of "hbieb tal-hbieb"!!............Mind you if Abela, Falzon and Coleiro Preca are happy with this Shulz affair, than heeey who am I to criticise??...........yet somehow I really doubt it!!!!!!

Francis Attard

May 23rd 2008, 17:08

I wonder what Dr.Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici has to say about this 'foreign interferance'. Or isn't it.

Albert Leone Ganado

May 23rd 2008, 16:55

As I predicted four years ago in my CNI days, whether Nationalists or Labourites we are all going to end up as poodles of the EU.

J Micallef

May 23rd 2008, 16:46

A mild dose of sycophantic foreign interference on the labour camp, I'd say.
I wonder if the other contenders will say this - oh! But Europe is one country now, eh? Well, it seems that every knife has two edges, and the labour surely know how to use the 2nd edge!
Anyhow, good luck to Mr. Muscat, then.
Perhaps the MLP can save some cash and simply call off the election.
Dr. Sant in the background? don't be silly!!! He's never left the foreground!

Angelo Vassallo

May 23rd 2008, 16:31

Dear Mr. Martin Shultz do you know what INDHIL BARRANI means in English?

It reminds us of an infamous law enacted by the Socialist Party of Malta, to which Mr. Muscat is hoping to become the leader, when it was in government undemocratically and against the WILL of the Maltese population.

It was a law that did not allow any FOREIGNERS to speak about Maltese politics in Malta. And now you come to hail Mr. Muscat at the detriment of the other four contenders in the same Socialist Party. You should have not done this. It is very unethical of you.

Something else. DoctorJoesephMuscat a pro-European? My foot!!!!!!!!!

Charles Camilleri

May 23rd 2008, 16:30

How things change! 30 years ago during Mintoff's time it would have been a crime for any foreigner to come to Malta and play the part of Martin Schulz . He would have been accused of breaking the foreign interference act. Now thanks to the Nationalist Government who removed this shameful law Mr Martin can come and give a push to Joseph Muscat. Perhaps Martin Schulz should be reminded of such things while still in Malta.

Malcolm Seychell

May 23rd 2008, 16:28

This is done regularly.

The same would have been said by the PPE leader if either Casa of Simon Busittil where contesting for leadership

Dr Muscat achieved positive results in the EU, but to run a country is totally different

Also nobody can forget that Muscat was one of the main people in labour who was against the EU membership

Alfred Farrugia

May 23rd 2008, 16:24

I wish to suggest to Dr. Joseph Muscat to table another Foreign Interference Bill for the consideration of the government side, so that if and when he is elected Labour leader, other candidates will not have the opportunity to get a similar endorsement in the future to compete against him.

vincent Cauchi

May 23rd 2008, 16:24

@All cynics commenting here
The comments by Mr Schultz were crystal clear. He describes Joseph Muscat as a deeply convinced pro-European member of the PES parliamentary group. whose diplomatic abilities had helped him solve problems within the group.
Mr Martin Schultz has worked closely with Joseph Muscat for the past 4 years and knows very well what he is talking about.
Apart from this, Joseph Muscat's track record and the results he achieved as an MEP speak for themselves. Don't you think so Professor Fenech?

Liam Borg

May 23rd 2008, 16:24

@ Robert Thake, I do not feel that I have to reconsider anything. I have attended Joseph's meetings, I have read his manifest and I am convinced of his credentials and I identify myself with his aspirations for Malta. I do not base my statement on speculation. The facts speak for themselves.

@ Others: This talk of Joseph Muscat being anti-EU is sadly imbecile and it reminds me of Orwellian 'doublethink' i.e. the act of holding two contradictory beliefs simultaneously, these being 'anti' and 'pro'. Yes, Joseph Muscat out of loyalty for his party followed the party line in 2003 but people conveniently forget that he chaired a party conference to adjourn MLP's politics in favor of the EU. People conveniently forget that he has done sterling work in the EP. People conveniently and persistently continue to create animosity and division where there should be none, perhaps because maybe they have been ingrained with the mentality of 'divide and conquer'. How people sincerely believe that Joseph can be anti-EU is beyond me.

L Ebejer

May 23rd 2008, 16:21

Well done Joe.
Dr. Muscat good political qualities are already being noticed in the EU Parliament.This confirms of what the opinion of the majority of Labour supporters think of Dr Muscat.Mr Muscat record in the EU Parliament confirms that he is the New Star OF Maltese Politics.I am sure that come Friday the 6 th of June the Labour delagates will be expressing the wish of the thousands of Labour supporters opinion and choose Joe Muscat as the new party leader.

A Muscat

May 23rd 2008, 16:16

This is scandalous. What business do PES have in endorsing one candidate over the others? Is our leader going to be chosen by foreigners? So we objected to our members voting but applaud foreigners putting their nose where they have no business to. Since when have the PES started interfereing in internal party elections of member parties?

@James vella
What has Kennedy endorsement got to do with this. This is as if Gordon Brown would endorse Obama over Clinton!!

Frankly I think such things puts off ordinary members like me seeing how the party apparatchiks are leaving no stone unturned to see their candidate elected rather than the one who gives the best propsects for winning where it matters. It seems that Labour are comfortable in oppositon. We are NOT!!

P Micallef

May 23rd 2008, 16:13

What's wrong with Martin Schulz endorsing Joseph Muscat? Dominic Fenech, if the same person, endorsed George Abela. So?

Schulz comment about the diplomatic abilities cannot be more true. Which one of the 5 candidates showed this ability?

And the most important thing about Joe is that he knows how to smile. He must be really worrying most of all the PN strategists. They are the ones who are doing their best to push other candidates in this race with the hope that later they will have enough fire power to shoot at.

V. Ellul

May 23rd 2008, 16:12

there was a time , not many years ago when Labour introduced the law of foreign interference and statesmen and foreign politicians were kicked out because they were in Malta to support the struggle that the pn had waged at the time. Funny enough Joseph Muscat dose not see this as foriegn interference, or does he? Or shall we call it the power of incumbency?

J. Azzopardi

May 23rd 2008, 16:10

Prof. Fenech, remember that Joseph has been endorsed by persons whom you at one time worked with when you were active in the Party, such as Dr. Fearne, Dr M. Sant and others. Do these also not know the qualities of the other contenders? All the contenders have some good points and valid arguments, but not all are the ideal person to lead a Party. Dr. Schultz endorsement of Joseph is based on the contribution he has given as an MEP and this will be to the Party's advantage within European circles should he - and i have not doubt - be chosen to be our Leader.
Congratulations Joseph, we will back you, however we will be loyal to whoever the delegates elect.

kevin abela

May 23rd 2008, 16:05

Simply incredible!! Even at such a simple show by a leader recognising the skills of a competent person makes you nationalists go wild. Please remember that even a couple of years back when the leadership race at Tal-Pieta was going on, even there we had people endorsing one candidate or another. Even the then prime minister was evidently backing the campaign of a particular candidate.
So, do we have to take these reactions that we humble socialists are not fit to do the same things the nationalists power gods have done over and over. Is this a simple gesture of having different classes of people in this country.

Randolph De Battista

May 23rd 2008, 16:00

Is Joe Balzan living 5 years back or what? How can all these wannabe progressive ppl criticize Schultz's endorsement? It's the way we do politics!

And as for those of you asking why are we waiting for 5th June....We are waiting because being considered a favourite doesn't mean one is already elected. Once the delegates vote for the new leader, we'll move on!

GOOD LUCK Dr Muscat!

M. Farrugia

May 23rd 2008, 15:50

Well Done Dr. Muscat
With both national and now even international endorsements you are casting aside the legacy of Old Labour and Labour`s failure so that once and for all move the Labour Party towards success. Many thanks for promising to rebuild a modern, moderate, centre left, compassionate Labour Party that will recapture the centre ground from the Nationalist Party
Victory on the 5th of June will give you a decisive mandate to change the way the party looks, thinks and behaves.
With you as Leader, the Labour Party will abandon the Punch and Judy style of politics for a new political season.

martin Portelli

May 23rd 2008, 15:40

Keeping cultural diversity in mind, is this MR. SCHULTZ’s recipe for fostering STRONGER TIES BETWEEN MALTESE SOCIALISTS? Can he elaborate on the validity of the other candidates please. Or does our bigger brother know it all? It is interesting that Mr. Muscat seems to crave the endorsement of status figures. Does he seriously think we’re politically immature? What will Mr. Muscat do if he ever becomes Prime Minister.? In the true exonormative spirit, will he run to Mr. Schultz for advice on how to run Maltese society? Joseph Muscat feels at home in Europe since he wears the badge of cognitive dissonance on his sleeve with pride. He could do well to enlighten us how his consciousness deals with having two such opposing beliefs in such a short space of time.
One more note . Dear Dr. Muscat please do not for the sake of the MLP keep ending your interviews with ‘proof of the pudding is in the eating’ if there is one phrase that will link you indelibly with Dr. Sant it is that. Tell your campaign manager to come up with an original if you want true credibility as your own man.

Abel Abela

May 23rd 2008, 15:40

This is a stunning faux pas by a politician of the experience and calibre of Martin Schulz. Mr Schulz should keep in mind that the Malta Labour Party is as much a member of PES as all the other member parties from across Europe. Mr Schulz chairs the PES group in the European Parliament, which includes the three Maltese Labour MEPs including Joseph Muscat. Is this Mr Schulz's personal opinion? Is he taking sides on behalf of the PES? Would a similar intervention in a leadership contest by the chairperson of one of the largest parties in the European Parliament be considered acceptable anywhere in Europe? Would it be tolerated by other member parties in PES? He has every right to his own opinion, but he should not use his PES chairmanship to take sides. If Mr Schulz respects the Maltese Labour Party, he should correct his statement and express his support to WHOEVER gets elected, FULLSTOP. The democratic process has been thwarted enough already.

Kevin Zammit

May 23rd 2008, 15:31

Firstly I find it interesting how the EU is changing mind sets. This is a foreign polititian helping out a work mate. True that this is a socialist group who by the nature of their policies look at dismembering nationalist conservatives but its encouraging none the less.

Nothwithstanding though I have to agree with the other comments. Mr Schultz no matter the quite substantial weight his word carries is only helping out a friend. The position of party leader is still a local affair with a totally different angle for which experience within the EU circle has lower priority at the moment.

martin Portelli

May 23rd 2008, 15:18

Thank you, Mr. Schultz. I see we poor iterant Maltese socialists do seem to need the confirmation of outsiders then, to help us in our choice. The new MLP vision incorporates the Nationalist trait of being totally exonormative (ie. A group that is wholly dependent for its norms on another community outside of itself) Just what exactly is this suppose to mean? That we can’t tell a pseudo penitent (because he has no choice now) anti – EU membership politician from a convincing pro –membership one? I am afraid it’s a case where it is easy for Mr. Muscat to posture as more European than heartland Europeans in Brussels & Strasbourg. However the exercise itself denotes he is having a hard time convincing a good number of us Maltese Labourites or otherwise who heard him and some of his endorsers speak prior to 2003. What are we meant to do, accept that European Socialists can now through this endorsement dictate who should be the leader of the Malta Labour Party? And you thought the certain elements of the Maltese media wanted to act as Kingmakers but this is the mother of all gimmicks.

Frans Sammut

May 23rd 2008, 15:06

I was and still am in favour of partnership with the EU rather than full membership. I stated this in public, wrote a book about it and am still very much of the same opinion. Fat lot of good has EU membership done us! But now that we are irrevocably in, I would rather have a party leader who knows how the EU works than somebody who has no inkling, except for the usual and presumption some people parade around assuming nobody can see through their facade. Besides, I would prefer having a leader heading for elections at 39 than somebody over 65. Naturally, the people on the other side of the fence would prefer a 65 year old opponent whom they can patronizingly pat on the back as "good ol' nannu" than a fresh young Turk raring to go. Like Mr Schulz I wish Dr Muscat well. There are other contestants whom I consider highly qualified for leadership, and expect them to graciosuly fall behind Dr Muscat's leadership after June 5. They are all sorely needed to save this corruption ridden place we call the Republic of Malta.

A Daley

May 23rd 2008, 14:59

Dr. Muscat is the right person to make the most of the EU. He is well versed with the manipulative and bureaucratic systems in the EU.
As time goes by, us in Malta, will be even more desperate to have a PM with a foreign style and attitude.

Sandro Gauci

May 23rd 2008, 14:58

Endorsing a candidate is a very normal thing to do in politics. In the US, John Edwards endorsed Obama. Even in this race, Dom Mintoff endorsed George Abela. Now a work collegue of Muscat is endorsing him, which means vouching, and all hell broke loose.

Tony Caruana

May 23rd 2008, 14:37

@ Vella James;

Kennedy is the brother of the ex-president of the US and not the current president of the Democratic Party. In fact the current chairperson of the Democratic Party is Howard Dean. I don't think that any commentator has any problem with an ex-leader endorsing a particular candidate but for the current President of the PES to support a particular candidate in a political party member of his group is outragous! This is not fair towards the MLP in general! If Alfred Sant wants to endorse Muscat than let him be my guest, if Mintoff wants to endorse George Abela then again be my guest! But this is not acceptable in any democracy. The constituents of Schultz are all the European Socialist Parties, so he should not go directly in any campaign and try to influence.

So now we should have Gonzi go down to the Zabbar PN Committee and choose who the members should vote for? Is that democracy? I guess not!

Andrew Borg-Cardona

May 23rd 2008, 14:22

Isn't it nice to see that foreign interference is no longer a heinous crime for the Malta Labour Party? The gleefull grin on Muscat's face is telling ... a crueller commentator than I would be tempted to put a thought bubble above his head and invite insertions. E' finita la commedia, methinks.

A Mangion

May 23rd 2008, 14:19

Why are some of your correspondents making all this fuss about Schultz endorsing Muscat ?

Dom Mintoff endorsed Abela few weeks ago.

joe balzan

May 23rd 2008, 14:09

Is Mr Martin Schulz the same person who before the elections told us the when he will be in Malta again Dr Sant will be Prime Minister?
Mr Schulz is telling us that Dr Muscat is a deeply convinced European. Good for him. However Did Dr Muscat show Mr Schultz any of the programmes he used to produce prior the referendum.

Vella James

May 23rd 2008, 14:08

I don't see anything wrong with having Mr Schulz endorsing Joseph. Please grow up.

In the US Kennedy has endorsed Obama for examaple.

It is just that Mr Schulz happened to have worked with Joseph and he knows he is capable; He also said that the other candidates as capable too.

Comments on Sant interfering - are so stupid.... does anyone here believe that Schulzreports to Sant and does what Sant says?!!!

Grow up. MLP has very good candidates and talents and will surely flourish in the near future.

Joe Micallef

May 23rd 2008, 14:06

3 observations

1. Is this the same Schulz who endorsed the error infested MLP electoral manifesto!
2. Is there something wrong with all socialists anywhere! This endorsement, to put it mildly, is surely unethical from someone occupying the post!
3. Is Jason aware that Joseph is abusing his copyright plastic smile!

Martin Camilleri

May 23rd 2008, 13:59

Well done Mr Muscat. I'm sure you deserve.

John Saliba

May 23rd 2008, 13:58

So Mr Schulz endorsed Dr. Joe Muscat for Party Leader. To make it sound convincing he said that the annointed one "is a deeply convinced pro-European." Pity he did not know Muscat in 2003 as he would have instead refered to him as "the newly converted pro-European". But shame, in 2003 Mr Schulz was busy criticizing Berlusconi's domestic policies.

jeremy c. portelli

May 23rd 2008, 13:52

@ dominic fenech

with great and sincere respect: a man of your calibre should not cast these doubts on the integrity and sincerity of Mr Schultz. Why do we have to remain ingrained in the siege mentality of the past and continue to discredit whoever does not toe our line?

I'm sure Mr Schultz chose to endorse Mr Muscat not out of personal proximity or friendship but because he truly believes what we said.

If we continue to choose to believe that people the stature of Mr Schultz can easily be fed the words one/s want to hear then there is no hope that this country will ever grow up.

I choose to accept Mr Schulz's judgement.

Mario Micallef

May 23rd 2008, 13:49

Am I mistaken or not? Wasn't it Dr Muscat who drew up the report for the GWU regarding the disadvantages of joining EU in 2004? I stand to be corrected on this...If I'm right then Mr Shultz must be wrong to describe him as pro-european

Reuben Sciberras

May 23rd 2008, 13:45

30 years ago, a comment like that of Mr Schulz would have been considered as 'indħil barrani'.
Glad to see that the MLP has moved on with the times...

Samuel Abela

May 23rd 2008, 13:45

One really important point to note is the conflict of interest that this episode has created. Let us just imagine that the Leadership contest is won by Dr. George Abela or Dr. Michael Falzon (very remote seeing that all the current MLP apparatciks are keen on seeing Dr. Muscat elected as Leader so as to keep their place), then Mr. Schulz will have to face the new leader ashamed of his biased position expressed today! We Labourites always discredit Dr. Fenech Adami for being biased in favour of the PN when he is supposed to represent all the country, now we are doing the same when the Head of PES Parliamentary Group is supposed to be objective with regard to the Political Parties which are members of his coalition taking sides in an internal election. Shame on Mr. Schulz and shame on the strategy team of Muscat for ridiculing this electoral campaign!

M. Falzon

May 23rd 2008, 13:31

Oh, I have absolutely no doubt that Joseph Muscat deserves it. By 'it' I mean the bad omen of an endorsement by Mr Schultz, by now probably the darkest uccello di malaugurio around. Remember the last time he was in Malta?

M. Brincat

May 23rd 2008, 13:29

One wouldn't back someone in a race if he's not convinced that he's the best ... does he? After all, Mr. Schulz is not just "any person" ...

anton cassar

May 23rd 2008, 13:27

May I ask if Mr Schutlz came to Malta on his own personal capacity or as president of the European Socialists? Because if it is the latter than shame on those who uses such tactics and I hope that the party`s election committee takes note of such blatant intrusion from a body that preaches unity amongst its members. (Anton Cassar, M'scala)

A Farrugia

May 23rd 2008, 13:26

why doesn''t the MLP stop this obscene race? Isn't it clear that Joe Muscat has the backing of Alfred Sant and the 'old' administration? The other candidates should call it a day in view of this Obscene endorsement. Truly I say to you that never have I seen such a leadership race.

eric saliba

May 23rd 2008, 13:23

@ dominic fenech......let's assume that schulz knows nothing about the other 4 contenders, which i'm sure is not the case, is it wrong to endorse the good qualities of one of the contenders??
btw in the article schulz is also quoted as saying that the other contenders are ' valid people '.

G. Sammut

May 23rd 2008, 13:17

Dear Prof. Fenech,

Are we now going to try and discredit people of such calibre as Martin Schulz? And are we now going to attack Joseph Muscat's true and sincere European credentials?

Robert Thake

May 23rd 2008, 13:16

@ Liam Borg

Reconsider the words 'statesman' and 'world leader' oh and 'successes'

Zammit D

May 23rd 2008, 13:15

@ Dr fenech

If not mistaken, Mr Schultz didn't say Mr Muscat is the best. He pointed out Mr Muscat's positive points. He worked with him, so it's only about him he can pass comments.

Ivan Scicluna

May 23rd 2008, 13:10

With reference to what Dr. Dominic Fenech said, what is sure is that Mr. Schulz knows the qualities of Joseph Muscat and what he managed to achieve in the European Parliament during the last 4 years. The Socialist Group in the EP was four square behind Joseph Muscat's successful campaign to have mobile phone roaming charges reduced by half since August last year. The same can be said for Muscat's insistence with the European Commission for measures to force the Maltese Government to change its car registration t ax regime.

Besides, the Group of Socialists in the European Parliament knows well what is going on in the Labour Party's leadership campaign and it is following it very closely. The type of endorsement being given by Mr. Schulz to Joseph Muscat is in conformity with what is done in all European and American democratic organisations and confirms how healthy is this contest for the Leadership of the Labour Party in Malta.

Ian Sammut Dacoutros

May 23rd 2008, 13:09

Is there even the need to wait till the elections?!?!

I will never understand

M. Storace

May 23rd 2008, 13:08

Congratulations are definitely in order on the achievements Dr. Muscat has gained during the last four years and for his sterling service.
Professor D. Fenech should have at least congratulated Dr. Muscat before posting his comments.

Maria Pace

May 23rd 2008, 13:07

Well Done, Dr.Muscat...you genuinely deserve it...and thank you for the hard work you have put in the European parliament and always with Malta's interest at heart!

Liam Borg

May 23rd 2008, 13:05

Both Labour and Malta should be proud of Joseph Muscat's successes which he has made for a Social Europe. Muscat is a Statesman in the making who is already drawing in support from world leaders. I hope the delegates make the right choice.

C Calleja

May 23rd 2008, 13:00

Well done to Muscat.
I think he deserves this endorsment as this is the result of 4 years of exceptional work within the European Parliament.

M. Brincat

May 23rd 2008, 12:16

If there was any doubt on where the elections will go, and I don't think there ever was, there are no more now.

Dominic Fenech

May 23rd 2008, 12:15

Just what does Mr Schulz know about the qualities of the other leadership contenders?