Labour leadership contenders fume over Schulz endorsement of Muscat

Ray Borg

May 29th 2008, 16:47

I read that Mr Rasmussen has replied to Dr Michael Falzon's letter. Can we be favoured by the publication of this reply please?

ben grech

May 29th 2008, 11:36

@Martin Portelli, yes you've got me there Martin, a silly mistake on my part to call him his former boss.

martin portelli

May 28th 2008, 17:27

@ Ben Grech

How come the PES chairperson’s already become the former boss, has JM resigned from the EU parliament? Is that an insider's scoop?

Nonetheless, I always thought that one of the most endearing qualities of the Maltese was the ability to call a spade a spade. Why do you think the village piazza exists in Malta, it is the theatre where observable behaviour is judged. Venture into the piazza but keep in mind that actions are noticed and kept in mind specifically if they're incongruent with the flood of inclusive words. The piazza is alive and healthy. Its simply become glocal now.

Sergio Galea Vincenti

May 28th 2008, 16:43

@ All the JM apologists: Accepting one's errors is a sign of strength and in this case, JM erred in a very naive manner. Had the issue been, for example, the EU referendum or similar, I would understand and accept similar endorsement (even though I am personally against all endorsements of whatever form).

Ben grech

May 28th 2008, 14:27

Its funny to think that during the 2003 EU referendum we had a whole host of “foreign interfering fellows”, with not a blip of critcism from the same people blogging hatred against Joseph Muscat for a pat on the back by his former boss. Hypocrisy, or media spin, you be the judge.

Ray Borg

May 28th 2008, 11:00

@ A Muscat

You are either missing my point completely or refusing to understand it. Schultz came to endorse a fellow Europarliamentarian from the same poltical grouping pure and simple. Mentioning names of other Maltese parlamenterians who are not members of the European Parliament is irrelevant and misleading....and here my friend, I rest my case

A Muscat

May 28th 2008, 09:46

@ Ray Borg
We have a European Union not a United States of Europe which is totally different. So according to you Martin Schultz could come here come next general elections and tell us to vote for Joe Debono Grech rather than for Chris Cardona!! Schultz is a foreigner and his role is only to garner support for the Labour Party as a whiole not for individual candidtaes.

So you see what a difference 10 years made. It is the electorate that for three times who challenged Sant's bid to govern the country and to lead the party. No better judge than time to show who was right and who was wrong.

Ray Borg

May 27th 2008, 17:35

@ A Muscat
From the comment you addressed to David Gatt it seems that the concept of a "united Europe" still escapes you. Very much like the USA, but not on the same federalist level, the European Union now has one parliament, one currency and one passport.
Mr Schultz's endorsement of Joseph Muscat was by a member of one Parliament to another member of the same parliament very much like the endorsements American politicians receive from their colleagues in Congress or the Senate. Chiaro?

As regards the comment you addressed to me on behalf of Alfred Mifsud, let me repeat that I have no problem reading and quoting from documents that have a bearing on our political history. Alfred Mifsud's letter to Alfred Sant of July 10, 1998 is very clear and there is nothing difficult to understand in the following quote from the same letter: "The George Abela and Lino Spiteri camps are no Mintoff buddies but primarily the objectives of both camps are quite congruent. George Abela is clearly challenging your party leadership. Mintoff is challenging your ability to govern.” Capito?

Sergio Galea Vincenti

May 27th 2008, 16:14

What sincerely disappointed me in all this saga is how Dr. Muscat reacted: Rather than admitting he made a mistake - which would have surely endeared him to many and made him look more human - he instead sounded his surprise...

This does not spell well to an MLP led by someone like him because this very same attitude - that is, of not admitting one's faults or defeats - was a well-worn theme from 1998 till today and this was a theme which damned us Labourites to another term of office of the PN.

A Muscat

May 27th 2008, 12:14

@David Gatt
You just don't seem to get it. Suggest you take a cold shower before you read this.
US politicians have a right to endorse one another. But have McCain, Obama or Clinton received any endorsement from a non US poltician even though the choice of the US presdient effects the life of everybody even those outside the US? Just imagaine what a furore it would raise if Brown, Merkel or Sarkozy were to endorse one of the US presidential contenders!!!!

@ Ray Borg
Alfred Mifsud can take you to the water but he cannot make you drink. If you cant understand his reply it is probably your problem not his.

martin portelli

May 27th 2008, 10:57

@ David Gatt
Don't confuse US endorsements with this controversial endorsement, I wouldn’t even go there. US endorsements are primarily useful as a fund raising tool.
Voting for the MLP leader will be the most personal vote a delegate can make that shouldn’t be muddled by the implied power of an endorsement from a status figure. Finally, The truly informed delegate voter would not need the advice of this endorser they are presumably capable of making the right decision for our party on their own.

David Gatt

May 27th 2008, 03:59

@Joe Vella

I'm sorry to say that but it seems that it's you who speaking out of pure ignorance. If you just take USA for example, every electoral candidate is endorsed by many public figures. This is the new pay that politics are being done and if you are not aware of this than I'm sorry to tell you that you are outdated.

No fuss was raised when Dom Mintoff favored GA. So why should this talk be brought up now? Is it because it is JM who's involved? Cause I'm getting the feeling that you PN die-hards for some reason are doing your best to make him lose the 5th June election. What could the reason behind this be?

Think people.

Joe Vella

May 26th 2008, 21:23

@ Maria Dolores Fenech

You ask what is wrong with Martin Schulz endoring Joseph Martin. To start with Martin Schulz is a FOREIGNER, and as such he should know better to but his nose in the affairs if a political party of a Soverign State. Secondly, Joseph Muscat should have the wisdom not to sekk nor accept such endoresment.

@ Maria Dolores Fenech & David Gatt

for both of you to say that this kind of thing happens in any democratic society/modern World you are both talking out of ignorance. I challenge both of you to cite where it had happen.

If it is true that Mr. Mintoff officially did endorse George Abela it is wrong. A Statesman should stay out of the Political Arena, Period..

Joe Vella

May 26th 2008, 21:12

@ A. Attard

You choose not to comment perhaps because you are lost for words. The PN never took, nor will it take the Electorate for granted.

Friendship in not bought but gained over a period of time my friend and at the end is not taken for granted. I hope you realize the contrast between the PN and the MLP.

Joe Vella

May 26th 2008, 21:08

@ Martin Portelli

I do differ with you as to whom shown bad Judgement. Bad Judgement in this case was clearly demonstrated by Joseph Muscat ant not Martin Schulz as you indicated. Joseph Muscat should have never sought and/or accepted Martin Schulz endorsement. Period

Michael Tabone

May 26th 2008, 20:53

The only reason Joseph Muscat opposed the EU Membership for Malta, was because it was PN who was getting Malta to achieve it. George Abela was one of the few who opposed MLPs actions against EU Membership. They didn't want to see Malta join the EU through PN. The partnership proposal was all false since MLP didn't even start talks nor did it have any foundations for which Malta could start a partnership with the EU. Obviously without suprise, MLP made a U-Turn and support the EU membership. I'm just saying something which people who support Joseph Muscat must have forgotten. Has it been that long?

Now if I was a delegate and I had to hear that endorsement, I would have said to myself, Schulz doesn't even know the other four contenders. How could his endorsement even carry any weight if he is un-aware who the other contenders are? He doesn't know who is the most capable for leadership.

From all I've seen Joseph Muscat has done some good for Malta with the EU, but nothing on the scale of being the main opposition's leader, let alone Prime Minister, the question is does he have the capabilities.

martin portelli

May 26th 2008, 20:03

@ Frans Sammut
Glad to note you want Mintoff’s rehabilitation and I’wouldn’t state that his is an act of endorsement. It was more of a testing dip in the pond of inclusion. Its on all of the contenders’ manifestos. Of course you can in historical analysis interpret Mintoff’s actions as divisive, machiavellian ,mercurial etc.etc....however he is an indelible part of the MLP’s socio –historicity. More specifically that progressive bit that set the ball rolling for a fairer secular society.
One real test for any leadership contender is just that, the ability to rehabilitate the nonagenarian. Mintoff as Lear may be described as a divisive force, and I assume you hope that like Lear he will have time to gain true wisdom and insight. Try a different angle and think of Mintoff’s behaviour in later years more as a harsh lament for the loss of Maltese political ‘għaqal’. ( with apologies to J.Boissevain).

NB even more glad to note your deference to Ellul Mercer’s philosophy/literature

martin portelli

May 26th 2008, 19:30

@Ben Grech

I think what some are objecting to is the smaller space left for a truly free choice. That does not exactly tally with a wider definition of democracy. It has absolutely nothing to do with being parochial I assume that was the adjective you wanted to use. It was about being sensible and respecting diversity.
The question then is not foreign interference but poor judgment. It was not one of Mr. Schultz’s best decision. It also reinforces the idea that some tend to think that being exonormative is the only way forward. I am all for unity but I really would like to see respect for diversity. Respect is not a one-way interface.

Ray Borg

May 26th 2008, 18:38

@Alfred Mifsud
I did follow your advice and read your article THE BOARDROOM SOLUTION. Either I missed something but I did not find anything to dispel the notion that "The George Abela and Lino Spiteri camps are no Mintoff buddies but primarily the objectives of both camps are quite congruent. George Abela is clearly challenging your party leadership. Mintoff is challenging your ability to govern.”

I agree with you that years enrich us with wisdom but they cannot change or erase historical facts.

@Dominic Fenech
George Abela invited Dom Mintoff to his fold when he spoke in public for the first time at the Regatta Club in Cospicua on April 13. Now that is another interesting historical fact.

Maria Dolores Fenech

May 26th 2008, 18:10

Why this fuss about Mr Schulz's endorsemnt? These things happen all the time in a democratic society.
As M Falzon said down below 'As I said yesterday, an endorsement by Schultz is a bad omen indeed. Joseph Muscat may soon learn that to his dismay.'
Can't anyone see now that Dr Muscat has to face a huge problem now. The other 4 contenders has formed a common front opposing Schulz's endosement. The delegates who support these contenders are now all out against Dr Muscat and there is a silent agreement between them all to vote for the runner up, whoever it will be (unless Dr Muscat gets 50+1 of the delegates votes, of course).

A Muscat

May 26th 2008, 18:00

@ Frans Sammut
Typical of your idol Alfred Sant you struggle to distinguish between your literary creativity and the reality of politics.

The analysis report of the 2003 & 2008 defeat make far more relevant reading for the future of the MLP. Whoever wins leadership will have to unravel a legacy of 10 years of defeats, confusion, internal piques, me first attitudes that your idol is leaving behind.

In the meantime enjoy reading King Lear.

David Gatt

May 26th 2008, 17:51

There is nothing wrong with what happened here. If you aren't living in the moon you should know that this thing happens all over the modern world. So JM did nothing wrong, its just someone else who is bitter here.

A. Attard

May 26th 2008, 17:35

@ Joe Vella

What PN is a humble party???? Hahaha good one, don't even need to comment.

M Borg

May 26th 2008, 16:11

....before the general election, the campaign was against JPO......and JPO benefited!
...now the campaign is against JM.....let's wait and see who will benefit1?!?!?

Frans Sammut

May 26th 2008, 12:39

Mr Alfred Mifsud is right to describe the 1998 as "a complex situation". But not too complex to be beyond calm, careful analysis. Archetypes and intertextual reading can come in handy too. Analogies abound and a sense of deja` vu too. As a start I would suggest "King Lear" and the history of the MLP particularly the episode where Mintoff turfed out Sir Paul Boffa. This is no short cut, of course, nor is it an attampt at "over-simplification". Nor, again, is it some exercise in ancient history. The man behind the identical scripts (not "King Leart", of course, but the Boffa ouster and the 1998 Samson re-enactment) is still very much around. As Mr Mifsud himself pointed out, he intends to vote in the general elections five years (or less) hence. So, with some cajoling, he may help unravel the mise en intrigue, unless he is too preoccupied with the persecution Mr Bush (the President of the US of A) is allegedly applying on him day and night.

Frans Sammut

May 26th 2008, 11:36

I too am all out to "rehabilitate" the GOM. The question is: does the GOM want to be "rehabilitated"? As a matter of fact I saw nothing wrong in his endorsing one of the contenders any more than Martin Shultz endorsed another. To each his own, sort of. The GOM knows Dr Abela best - they have been close friends for many years - while Martin Shultz knows Dr Muscat inside the international Labour Union. Now may the best man win. Why all this fuss about endorsement and what not? I would not like to forget mentioning that Guze` Ellul Mercer has always been one of my favourite writers/philosophers.

Dominic Fenech

May 26th 2008, 10:38

What's all this about Mintoff endorsing GA? Mintoff did it out of his own initiative. The last time a leadership candidate went to Mintoff to seek his endorsement was in 1992. He failed to get it, and threw in the towel.

Ben Grech

May 26th 2008, 08:41

@Martin portelli, as full members of the EU, we can't take such an isolated view. Mr Schulz's endorsement can not be viewed as 'foreign interference'. Mr Schulz, as the chairman of the European Socialists, represents us as much as he represents his home country. We are full members of the European Union first and foremost.

martin portelli

May 26th 2008, 00:06

RE Mintoff vs Herr Schultz endorsments . I don’t think the comparison is valid you can assume it on the quasi- logical premise that both are endorsements of sorts but that one is equal to the other is a false assumption. The endorsement by a foreign status figure as intended carries a different weight. The boat has definitely been rocked again and lack of judgment prevails but at whose expense? To expect loyalty at all costs is a bit unrealistic too.
RE Mintoff everyone is in favour of rehabilitating him now even Joseph Muscat ( as declared on May 5th in a TV interview). There is no choice really, how can you boast of Labour’s progressive gains if you leave the man out in the cold in the twilight of his years. That inclusiveness is in the spirit of Ellul Mercer’s beautiful words, which we who subscribe to a certain philosophy can all recite if not sing.
NB I am still waiting for Dr. Muscat’s answer to my question so I’ll ask it again.
Who’s man is he primarily , Herr Schultz’s or the MLP’s?
In the meantime, I suggest he properly meditates on Ellul Mercer’s inspiring words.

Joe Vella

May 25th 2008, 21:31

@ Frans Sammut

Mr. Sammut you quoted Simon Bussutil correctly. The MlP should learn from Simon Busuttil.

The PN is a humble party and takes nothing for granted. It has to earn the trust of the electorate day after day. Maybe it is this that is missing in the PN's DNA.

Alfred Mifsud

May 25th 2008, 20:55

@ Ray Borg
I suggest you read my article THE BOARDROOM SOLUTION which you can find on my website in reply to what you state. Thank God I am 10 years older and wiser and can see things much better than I could do on 10th July 1998. I can just add that if the Boardroom solution tried before rushing for early elections Labour would not have had 10 traumatic years since. Whoever says that AS had no alternative but to go for early elections in 1998 is over-simplifying a complex situation.

@ Frans Sammaut
It is a show of PN strength to treat a narrow victory as a moral defeat. Unfortunately with Labour it is the inverse. There are people who want to change the least possible and consider a narrow defeat as victory.

Ray Borg

May 25th 2008, 18:45

@ Alfred Mifsud
Contrary to what you claim you did write history back in July 10 1998.
In a memo to Prime Minister Alfred Sant you wrote:
“This is a situation which needs cool heads and thinking, and I dare say that a detached view could enrich your analysis so I decided to bother you with my thoughts.
It is clear that you are fighting at least two factions that conveniently have come together to fight a common adversary. The George Abela and Lino Spiteri camps are no Mintoff buddies but primarily the objectives of both camps are quite congruent. George Abela is clearly challenging your party leadership. Mintoff is challenging your ability to govern.”
Mr Mifsud concluded his note with the folowing offer:
“If new elections become a reality count on my (sic) to fill any administrative void filled by George Abela as may be necessary”

Frans Sammut

May 25th 2008, 18:00

Mr Alfred Mifsud thankfully took my hint and refrained from delving deeper into history (for the moment) as one Patrick Vella would like us to. The less said the better at this stage not to let oustiders relish their schadenfreunde sort of perverted pleasure. But again it must be pointed to Mr Mifsud that the GOM is not a life delegate. No disrespect is meant of course. While Martin Schultz IS a Labourite. These are facts nor fiction. As to the aforementioned Patrick Vella, may I quote today's paper where Dr Simon Busuttil, certainly not an MLP delegate or whatever, said: "For all intents and purposes, the PN should treat the last election as a defeat.” Again, facts not fiction.

Sergio Galea Vincenti

May 25th 2008, 16:59

Mr. Frans Sammut stated that I consider Dom Mintoff's endorsement of Dr. Abela to 'outweigh' that of Mr. Shulz to Dr. Muscat. Personally, I think both reflect negatively on the candidates themselves. The difference is glaring: Mr. Shulz is not part of the MLP and is not Maltese. Likewise, the various Maltese labourites who have chosen to publicly endorse any other candidate have all the right to do so... I think that a leadership hopeful should stand on his own two feet and be his own man (or woman).

Mr. Sammut then states that I raised points without checking whether there was any relation between them: Apart from having expected better from him, my reply is simple: We are commenting here, I believe, of a leadership bid and a report has been issued regarding the election defeat which has caused this bid and which comes days before an election amongst people who may have the support of the authors of said report.

Regarding the labourites who have chosen not to vote Labour, I think that we should humbly seek to stop pointing fingers but rather try and understand why people still chose GonziPN despite all the various issues.

Joe Vella

May 25th 2008, 16:34

@ Frans Sammut

Mr. Sammut in your justification of Joseph Muscat endorsement by Martin Schulz you failed to point out one VERY IMPORTANT FACT. That is, DOM MINTOFF is MALTESE whereas; MARTIN SCHULZ is a FORIEGNER. I believe it is you who is trying to rewrite history and not Alfred Mifsud as you suggested.

If one cannot be honest with one self, how can he be honest withthe rest of us. That is some food for thaught. Think about it; you might discover what is wrong with the MLP relationship with the Maltese Public.

Shame on you Frans Sammut for comparing Dom Mintoff with that foreigner Martin Schulz

Joe Vella

May 25th 2008, 16:23

@ Byron Camilleri

Byron, your reasoning and rational demonstrate what is wrong with the MLP. That kind of reasoning and rational take the rest of us, as being gullible and to believe every thing that the MLP throws at the Maltese Society as a whole.

Wheter; Malta is a member state of the EU or not, no thanks to Joseph Muscat and the MLP, the fact remains that Malta is a Soverign Country and no one from abroad should interfere with its' internal Political matters. BEing at the Country level or Party level.

The other point you mentioned to justify the Endorsment of Joseph Muscat by Martin Schulz is America's political System. You did so by implying that if things keep developing the way they are within the EU, Its' political system will mirror that of the USA. Here again you spoke out of line. What might have happen in the future isirrelevant and onther topic of discussion altogether.

President Bush waited for the Primaries to be over to endorse the eventual winner of his Party's noso beforminee, John Mc Cain. To have endorsed someone prior of being nominated would have been unethical and but the other canditates in disadvantage.

Alfred Mifsud

May 25th 2008, 14:59

@ Mr Frans Sammut
I neither write nor re-write history. I read it. Mr Frans Sammut is far better at writing though he at times has problems in separating fact from fiction.. For example Mr schultz is no Labourite and will not be voting in the next general elections by whose results the new Labour leader will stand or fall. On the contrary Mintoff isnot only a labourite by a lifetime delegate of the general conference and if God lends him enoug years will vote at next elections.

Frans Sammut

May 25th 2008, 14:51

Perhaps you will be able to read about it when I publish the book I am currently writing. Thank you for your pre-publication advertising. I appreciate it since it is also free of charge. In the meantime I suggest you read the book you mentioned, you may learn something yet, mate.

Patrick Vella

May 25th 2008, 14:11

@ Frans Sammut

Keep on dreaming and dreaming and dreaming.
You wrote that Dom Mintoff brought down the Labour Government in 1998 in his bid to place Dr Abela instead of Dr. Sant. Go and tell it to the marines !!!!!!
Your remember you last book published few days before last election 'Alfred Sant: Il-Vizjoni ghal-Bidla'
Where was the 'Bidla' ????????????
That was the man who brought down the Labour Government in 1998.
I am waiting for your next publication. It will be very interesting to read like ' Frans Sammut: L-Uniku wiehed"

Frans Sammut

May 25th 2008, 14:07

Mr Galea Vincenti has raised several points without bothering to check whether there was any relation between them. But never mind. If he insists that Mr Schulz's endorsement of Dr Joseph Muscat outweighs that of Mr Mintoff's, we need not quarrel about it. Dr Abela is still at liberty to acquire further endorsement to bring about a balance. No objection there. Come to think of it, I do not see any call for disagreement on the findings of the election report. Report or no report, the fact remains that the PN was again returned to power because a sizable chunk of "Labourites" cut their nose to spite their face. Some of them actually made a fortune out of their stance. Now, please, please, let us not go into that. Do not let this debate (!) degenerate further. Just ask these people why they refrained from voting, why some of them went abroad for that particular weekend, and so forth. Ask them, and give us a break, ha?

Byron Camilleri

May 25th 2008, 13:34

I am sorry to say that some of you are missing some distinction. Today Mala is represented in two parliaments, Maltese and EU. The way the EU is developping, we will soon become very similar to the USA system - where all countries will have a common president/prime minister, and the country's PM will be like the USA state governor.

Our Maltese parliament can't enact laws which goes against EU laws - and if it does, any citizen can go to the European court to challenge.

Therefore the endorsement of Schulz to Muscat is quite normal! It must be that those speaking against this endorsement don't really know what the EU is all about, or else they're still against EU.

Sergio Galea Vincenti

May 25th 2008, 13:29

Indeed, some endorsements are more equal than others and if Dr. Muscat cannot distinguish this fact then he really does not know where certain boundaries are located. I am now understanding why some contenders have chosen not to seek endorsements of any form.

Likewise, I think it's quite premature to comment on the findings of the so-called electoral defeat report as, first, one has to see whether the report reflected the information it was presented to it and whether there have been any 'manipulations' to favour some people over others through a misrepresentation of facts and the presentation of subjective findings.

I cannot see how a report compiled by people who may have endorsed one particular candidate or other for the leadership race can be held as being objective.

Frans Sammut

May 25th 2008, 12:17

Mr Alfred Mifsud was right to point that it is normal for MLP candidates to get endorsement from Labour personalities. That is why Dr George Abela got his from his friend Dom Mintoff and Dr Joseph Muscat got his from his friend Martin Schulz. There is a difference however. Whereas Dom Mintoff brought down the Labour Government in 1998 in his bid to place Dr Abela instead of Dr Sant (hoping he would let him stay in the driver's seat very much as Habib Bourguiba thought Mzali would let him), Mr Schulz tried to do nothing of the sort. He simply endorsed Dr Joseph Muscat whom he had come to know through their common EU experience. End of story ... unless Mr Mifsud intends to rewrite history.

Alfred Mifsud

May 25th 2008, 11:25

Many contributors cannot make the distinction that it is normal for MLP supporters to endorse the candidate of their choice but quite a different matter having the head of Socilaist MEP endorsing a particular candiate for the leadership. So the argument that Schultz has the same right to endorse JM as Mintoff to endorse GA non regge.

In the end true leaders do not need endorsements if they truly believe in themselves. I endorsed GA not because he asked me to but because I truly believe he offers the best prospects for MLP's future. My endorsement has more weight considering that I had JM working for my organisation for 4 whole years and I also collaborated with him when I was Chairman at Super One. In simple terms I know what I am talking about when I say JM could be a a good leader eventually but is presently no match for the task that awaits him.

Following publication of the analysis Report of the 2008 election loss I am left with no doubt that only a person from outside like GA can deliver the re-organisation that must precede a Labour election victory.

Christina Borg

May 25th 2008, 11:06

Let us for a moment assume that what one of your commentators said is true, that is that I am part of a bigger mess than what has been documented in the MLP Defeat Report and what is currently taking place in the MLP Leadership Race. I may console myself by the fact that my DNA is defective while MLP’s is not (according to MLP Acting Leader). This said, I cannot see what consolation anyone can draw from this mess by attributing a similar mess to some other party. If I had to find myself in a similar mess I would be working hard to clear it up, rather than being apologetic about it. But then I don’t know what having a perfect DNA means.

Malcolm Seychell

May 25th 2008, 09:53

@Mark Tanti - JM was elected under the MLP and not on his own. He has to learn to show some respect to other candidates who also form part of MLP, and unlike him who went to Brussels the others had to stay in Malta with DR Sant.

martin portelli

May 25th 2008, 07:45

In the spirit of respecting cultural diversity and that you have to respect how certain cultures differ from others, I will focus on the issue of loyalty so dear to us Maltese Labourites.
I would like to ask Joseph Muscat one question .

Whose man will he be first and foremost Martin Schultz's or the MLP's?

I await an answer from the man himself not his acolytes!

Fleur Hili

May 25th 2008, 01:44

So Mr.Schulz is endorsing the poodle.
Well we know what singular breeds do at dog shows ............ they win, not because they are best in show but because they are a one off. (At least that is what the delegates and MR.Schulz think).

J.Bonnici

May 25th 2008, 01:24

Some comments on writing an official letter:
1) Your name should appear only at the end.
2) The words you choose should speak for themselves; bold words or underlined phrases should be avoided
3) No matter how angry you are, you should resist the temptation of becoming too emotional. Whoever is reading your letter needs to focus on the message rather than on your distasteful comments
4) Commas should only be used when necessary

nathalie balzan

May 25th 2008, 00:11

This is better than most soaps on TV. Like commentators have said before me it really shows that we have elected the right party to government...all this bickering and arguing leads to more cliques and less unity in the Labour party. We might be heading towards having a repeat of the GonziPN victory in 2013. Keep it up oh Michael, dear Michael! Everyone seems to be talking about this incident today...miskien that Maltese that got kidnapped in Nigeria. He doesn't know that his story could be buried under Labour's latest theatrical drama...Ladies and Gentlemen Labour presents a local adaptation of Othello: a tale of envy, outrage and betrayal. What a farce! If I were a Labourite I'd be embaressed by the whole story and if I were an activist I'd throw my membership card in the paper bring-in-site. I have witnessed so many Labourites fighting over this whole story. Cliques condemming other cliques, labourites throwing in their opinion, for what its worth (see Labourinlabour.wordpress.com) and moderates sharing their views...it's almost like being on Xarabank ;) the crunch of it all is that MLP is a sinking ship. So let's just take a seat, and enjoy the show. ICEBERG!

Marie Abdilla

May 24th 2008, 23:51

I can't understand what all the fuss is about the Schulz endorsement. Mr. Schulz endorsed Joseph Muscat as someone who has come to know him personally and is impressed by his capabilities.

With that silly, puerile letter Dr Falzon has sure put his foot in it this time. First he seriously needs lessons in English syntax, second he comes across as someone who has no idea of what political endorsement means, third this isn't the first time that he's let his emotions get the better of him but he's outdone himself today showing that shooting from the hip is certainly one of Falzon's major character flaws, fourth the arrogance of the man saying to Mr Rasmussen “We are sure you agree that it is deeply offensive, totally irregular, and highly unethical", fifth sounds like nothing more than Envy! Finally how dare he sign off as DEPUTY LEADER!!! If he wants to make a laughing stock of himself personally well that's his problem but when he signed as Deputy he's roping the whole Party in! I hope that Rasmussen ignores him and the delegates give him what he deserves - a good trouncing!

Maria Pace

May 24th 2008, 23:20

Dear Christina Borg,

You happen to be part of another mess...please tell me you don't believe for 1minute that the PN doesn't have or has never had messes as you call it. The only difference is that in the Labour Party things are more exciting as they take place openly which I believe is better...at least many PN propagandists who comment frequently on this site would have more to fill their time.

Joe Vella

May 24th 2008, 23:17

@ K. Mifsud

Mr./Mrs, Mifsud, finally the MLP discovered that Malta belongs in Europe. Welcome abroad.

The point here is that not even outgoing leader should intervene in the selection process as to whom should succeeded him. Ironically, here in Malta we have a FOREIGNER, telling us who should be leader of the MLP. If that is not a direct interference by a FOREIGN person then what it is.

Perhaps this is what Alfred Sant was referring to when he spoke in Parliament in response to the President's speech that there are those trying to infiltrate the MLP.

Shame on Joseph Muscat.

mark tanti

May 24th 2008, 22:44

JM was elected as MEP by MLP supporters so it was not ethic and shamefull from his side to take advantage of his position. He made a move A.Sant's style. This show how these people operate ready to do anything to gain power. Today 3 months after the 8 th March election Maltese citizens must bless those 1.500 votes by which the MLP lost the last general election. Imagine what would have happened to us by just comparing what is happening in their party.

Ronnie Gauci

May 24th 2008, 22:42

Mess after mess, the biggest mess yet is yet to happen. on the 5th of June when Dr. George Abela, the only one able to clean these messes, will not be made leader. Huge celebrations will follow at the PN HQ.

Frans Sammut

May 24th 2008, 22:25

You got it all wrong, Mister. Malta's GOM is not a life delegate of the MLP general conference. Mr Martin Schulz IS the PES chairman. Get your facts right before you next open your trap.

Mark Pisani

May 24th 2008, 22:12

Oh Mr. George Larry Zammit...
It seems you really know Joe well... I therefore would like to ask you, if JM never wanted to become a politician, who is that nasty nasty person who forced him to get involved in Super 1 first, in MEP elections 2nd and now the MLP leadership race? I really pity poor JM - someone must really be putting a gun to his head!
Mark
Ps. I already know what some bloggers are going to answer - nobody is forcing Joe, its just that he is a really good person and he wants to save our beautiful country from those incompetent nationalists...

Christina Borg

May 24th 2008, 21:18

I'd rather continue living with my defective DNA than be part of this mess.

George Larry Zammit

May 24th 2008, 21:13

This once again confirms the biggest problem the MLP has. They just keep on perceive one's success as a threat and not an opportunity. Whoever is proactive and on the ball is martyred and turned into a guinea pig. This is what is happening to JM and honestly it is not fair. No wonder he never wanted anything to do with being a politician!

For the other contenders I am sorry to realise that you have no idea of how politics is done in the 21st century. No idea of campaigning. Just pointing fingers and crying wolf. No wonder the MLP has set up permanent residence on the opposition benches.

Joseph Muscat is ambitious. And yes he can sometimes be a dreamer. But one thing for sure is that Joe Muscat wants to be a winner. He wants to be successful. And if he is successful, then that success will be rippled down to the MLP, our nation, and our citizens.

Therefore keep it up Joseph. Battle the storm. And as they say, the winner takes it all.

Francis Attard

May 24th 2008, 21:12

We are experiencing the situation of the MLP after 16 years of Alfred Sant's leadership.

Louis Falzon

May 24th 2008, 20:48

Dr Falzon,

is this the Labour United which you roar about? I truly admire you and I truly support you, but be careful cause many people are interpreting this as `sour grapes`.

Don`t play the game of George Abela - don`t fall in his trap. Otherwise people will resent you like him.

Patrick Vella

May 24th 2008, 20:40

The comments about Mr. Mintoff endorsing Dr. George Abela doesn't make any sense.

Mr. Mintoff is a life delegate of the Labour General Conference and when he attended the rally at Qormi, he attended as a delegate of the general conference, like all other present delegates.

At the Labour General Conference only Mr. Dom Mintoff and Dr. Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici are life delegates.

A.Vella

May 24th 2008, 20:02

Dear J.Zammit,

Bush endorsed McCain ONLY AFTER he was declared the official Republican candidate for the Presedntial elections. He never uttered a word of who would be the best Republican candidate before that. Which highlights even more of how wrong Mr.Schultz's decision, given his position, was in endorsing Muscat, since the leader race is in full-swing.

Christina Borg

May 24th 2008, 19:48

No wonder Alfred Sant in Government did not last more than 22 months.

martin portelli

May 24th 2008, 19:30

Far from extending the inclusive hand JM has begun serving his pudding mouldy indeed. Whose man is he actually? The MLP's or just Martin Schultz's? Martin Shultz argues that we need Joseph to make sure that ....certain things” are changed within the Maltese Parliament... that we have the “right tools” for the job, including the right people to review EU directives carry out technical analyses. So that will be the sole job description of the future Labour leader? Do the people of Malta have any say in this at all ?
We have it from the horse's mouth as Mr. Schultz said yesterday:
“My parliamentary group has an interest in supporting Joe’s campaign as we need more Socialist party leaders with EU experience… as Group leader, and Joe’s boss in Brussels, I fully support his candidature”
Is the PES saying that only MEP’s should be chosen as party leaders? Is this a new rule to be added to the MLP statute as dictated by the new patriarchs? I can’t understand Mr. Schultz’s use of the word valid then, with regards the rest of the contenders. Democracy at its widest definition ?
Do we have a shred of self-respect left?

Charles J Buttigieg

May 24th 2008, 19:23

EFA pushed L. Gonzi,Gonzi pushed EFA, Mintoff pushed KMB,KMB pushed George Vella,Mintoff is now pushing G.Abela,Margaret Thatcher pushed John Major, Neil Kinnock pushed Tony Blair, Tony Blair pushed Gordon Brown but in the end it's always the party delegates that have a tangible effect on the final choice. These are the acceptable norms of modern democracy and no amount of bickering will change it.

And please do not talk to us about foreign interference, Martin Schultz is one of us, we are in the Union now.... remember?

Maria Pace

May 24th 2008, 19:08

For crying out loud, we're living in 2008 and some people are still so narrow-minded...
Why is it so wrong that a foreigner endorses JM?The others were endorsed by influential people as well...they could have been endorsed by a foreigner too if they wanted to but they weren't.
Joseph Muscat happens to be one of the people who, despite his age, worked hard in the interest of our country these last few years. I don't know why the other contenders are so infuriated at this particularly Michael Falzon who was at the top when Labour was defeated.
It's high time that we move forward in our thought and I believe Dr. Muscat when he claims that he wants Malta to be the best in the EU...I am also confident that he will strive to achieve this.

And one last point...I also don't know why the Nationalists are so keen to attack everything and everyone who happens not to be blue-eyed.
Oh I know why...the Labour Party is exciting at least...Things happen and in the open which is what people really want...to know what's going on and then it's take it or leave it!

A.Gauci Cunningham

May 24th 2008, 18:58

..........Read these blogs...........and you'll see why the MLP is in opposition.................Had I been a foreigner totally alien to maltese politics I'd think that there are 2 supporters from 2 different Parties in this blog.............Sorry, I know it's not very nice to remind you, but this is the sad legacy the one ,who your delegates give standing ovations to, has left you in!!!

R. Cassar

May 24th 2008, 18:42

@ c. Camilleri

What about the chairwoman of the woman labour section (Dr. Miriam Spiteri Debono) endorsing Dr. Abela? She is a chairperson like Schulz. So why the big fuss?

As for Dr Falzon, well, let him continue to push his politics of paranoia. He is trying to set the agenda. By tomorrow however, everyone will be speaking about the Labour Party`s report on labours defeat. Well, Michael falzon is TERRIBLY GUILTY, part and parcel of the strategy team that led the Labour Party to loose its 3rd general election. He must consider pulling out of this leadership election. He owes all delegates and party members alot of explanations.

As for Mr. Bartolo, well well well, he is the hand up monalisa`s skirt. you never see him coming, never see him playing but he is there...pushing the buttons. What a surprise to watch him tango with Dr. Falzon. Is he the same Varist that was at loggerheads with Dr. Michael falzon in the last couple of years. This tale is like an unhappy marriage.

Sour grapes is the false denial of desire for something sought but not acquired; to denigrate and feign disdain for that which one could not attain

Keith Abela

May 24th 2008, 18:20

One element is wrong in all this business; Whether or not that Martin Schulz endoursed Dr. Joseph Muscat on personal thaughts or else on behalf of PES. Fumes could only be reosanable if endoursement came from the latter. Dr. Muscat had all the right to bring his friend and colleague over to Malta to support his campaign, just like other contenders did and still have the opportunity to do so. However it should have only been "by a deep personal conviction and friendship" and not "as a group leader" or in the name of "..our party and my parliamenterian group". It should have been in the interest of PES to endourse all contenders WHATEVER THEIR EXPERIENCE IS. Stressing on the experience that a good leader would require to work along with PES, would have been enough for a good choice to be made. Any other argument is more fuel for fire, a fire that whoever does not endourse MLP makes sure is kept on.

K. Mifsud

May 24th 2008, 18:18

"What is really shocking and unacceptable in that we have a FOREIGNER interfering in the internal affairs of a political party in another sovereign state." - Are you serious?

What I find truly shocking is that some people still think like this in 2008! Long gone are the days of the misguided Foreign Interference Act. We are no longer an insignificant Malta living in pathetic isolation. Today, we are all EU citizens and part of the greater political landscape of Europe. Our internal political scene is of interest to others in Europe, as our politicians take decisions that bind the whole of Europe.

Our leaders are Europe's leaders - our PM is one of the persons steering the political direction of the whole of Europe as a member of the European Council. Our ministers vote into force European law. Surely, EU citizens have a right to be interested and participate in our political life!

'Foreigners', especially fellow Europeans, should be allowed to speak as they wish. After hearing all the arguments in the world, the Maltese are both free and smart enough to make up their own minds. Such is the nature of a pluralist society.

J Zammit

May 24th 2008, 18:10

@ Joe Vella

Mr Vella just to clarify...George W Bush - outgoing US president endorsed John Mc Cain Republican candidate for the presidency in the US

Malcolm Seychell

May 24th 2008, 18:09

If there was a doubt that Dr Muscat is eqaul to Sant know we have facts. Well done to DR Falzon who wrote this letter. From his last apperence on Smash TV, he definitely is showing to have the best leadership skills. Calm, ready to work with anybody even the government when needed, good speaker, and no high hopes like Sant used to promise

G. Sammut

May 24th 2008, 18:02

What a shameful letter to say the least. Michael Falzon who assumes paternity of the letter should be condemned for using his capacity as Deputy for Party Affairs in a bid to pursue his interests in the leadership campaign. Moreover he is harming the MLP's relations with the PES. This collective crusade against J Muscat by all and sundry only reinforces his strength because no one would bother to attack a loser. 'Unity' my foot. This is nothing but a puerile attempt by the contenders to split the party because they simply have no influential politicians to back them up. That is the mother of all shame. I'm sure they would do the same if they had some big guns. And I wouldn't have said a damn thing because its a NORMAL thing to do. So I cannot help but feel that this is a case of sour grapes by the other contenders who, rather than trying their best to win (it is a contest after all) would rather succumb to the usual and antiquated negativity and attacks on others. As far as I know that didn't help Labour win the elections.

Frans Sammut

May 24th 2008, 17:52

It seems each time I make a contribution of some sort, I have to repeat the message at least once for the benefit of those who do not grasp it at once. What I said was: "If Mintoff why not Shulz"? Got it now ... Schultz?

JOHN SCERRI

May 24th 2008, 17:41

This article is the first concrete sign of a long suspected split of the MLP.

Conflicting comments here under show a more tangible picture of what is to happen.
Talk about...... 'out with the old and in with the new'.... what criteria is used to classify these sectors? Is it just age?
Maybe a lot do not realize that ideas alone cannot take one anywhere.
Ideas combined with knowledge and experience of persons who had to hit the dirt to arrive where they are today will lead to goals.
It will be very doubtful if after the leadership election is through all will return to normal with everyone pulling at one rope in the same direction.

C Calleja

May 24th 2008, 17:27

There should be no problem with Mintoff endorsing Abela. he was the salvatur and yes he did a lot of good for malta.

With the same argument there must be no problem with Schultz endorsing muscat

R Azzopardi

May 24th 2008, 16:59

Mr. Frans Sammut, did you approve the Foreign Interference Act under the Mintoff Administration? What was your opinion at that time? I cannot understand why all this fuss because Mintoff attended George Abela's meeting. After all Mintoff was your Salvatur and also a Maltese citizen

MG Buttigieg

May 24th 2008, 16:51

Mr. Schulz would have been justified in coming over and declaring his support if the whole labour party was engaged in a general election. He would then have been called upon to support the labour or socialist policies of the party arguing that they are better than those of an opposing party. But to come over and support a contender in an election within the same party is I find to a very bad taste. It is in simple words a grave gaffe.

Christina Borg

May 24th 2008, 16:42

Labour united ... Remember that?

Ian Borg

May 24th 2008, 16:39

The common front against JM benefits JM more than what many (including the other candidates) believe would damage his reputation. The other candidates move against JM is seem as `sour grapes` ..nothing more, nothing less.

Randolph De Battista

May 24th 2008, 16:38

1 word for the letter sent by the leadership contenders...INCREDIBLE!!! Totally incredible!

Joe Vella

May 24th 2008, 16:22

Those who are saying that these kinds of endorsements happen all over, do not know what they are talking about. I challenge them to present instances where this have happened.

In western democracies outgoing Party Leaders do not endorse any of the candidates running to succeed them.

What is really shocking and unacceptable in that we have a FOREIGNER interfering in the internal affairs of a political party in another sovereign state.

Dr. Joseph Muscat should have never sought nor accepted such endorsement. By doing so, Dr, Joseph Muscat shows lack of judgement and demostrates that he does not have the maturity to be Party leader, never mind Prime Minister.

SHAME ON YOU, DR, JOSEPH MUSCAT.

Jennifer Cosaitis

May 24th 2008, 16:21

Childish to say the least. Lovely to see the party united so - NOT

Ben grech

May 24th 2008, 16:20

All the candidates had endorsements, there s nothing wrong with that. In this case Joe is being endorsed by the leader of the european socialists. George Abela was endorsed by Mintoff, and not a peep was sounded. There seems to be a concerted campaign by nationalist leading columnists against Joseph Muscat.

Michael Borg

May 24th 2008, 16:00

It is funny to see nationalists talking like they are saints, when they forget what happened in their own party when there was the so called 'tellieqa bejn il- hbieb'. My oh my, how do you forget your misdeeds. Just ask John Dalli what he had to endure. Nice try to cover the fact that you stole this election. The title of 'oqbra mbajda' really suits you all.

Charles DeMicoli

May 24th 2008, 15:25

What a silly letter. What a closed-mind mentality. Some of the contenders are part of the 3 -Time Losing Team, so they should not even be in the race or have anything to do with running the party - their track record speaks for itself, same old, same old. As for Dr. Abela, I feel like he's stuck in the past, same old, same old. Did the Falzon coalition cry foul to the Dom's endorsement, or do they consider him irrelevant? I hope Joe Muscat will get the help he needs to fix the broken wheels and rusted gears that bog down the party, once he takes the helm - oops, I endorsed him, but I'm just a new york democrat, so I'm irrelevant too. (I guess I won't be getting a letter).

Frank Fenech

May 24th 2008, 15:12

JM is beating all the rest at the race of leadership. He is young but he has brains.The attitude of the other four is oldish I have formed an opinion that JM is the best.. This is the world of politics. JM is way ahead of the four. I appeal to the four to fight back and reach up with him with modern tools. Otherwise just harp on with siffled ideas as you are doing now
How pathetic Dr. Michael Falzon's letter was.

Maria Farrugia

May 24th 2008, 14:46

Hasn't anyone seen John Edward's endorsement to Barack Obama. What's the BIG deal.

This is modern politics for you?

The difference between Joseph and the rest of the contestants is now CLEAR. Joseph is the new life in Labour, the others are old schools politicians.

The delegates have now an easy choice. The NEW vs the OLD.

mario debono

May 24th 2008, 14:39

The End justifies the means...............it was fredu's slogan, now its Joey's. What an unsavoury act of unfairness this endorsement has been. I wonder who paid for the Schultz trip??????

Martin Camilleri

May 24th 2008, 14:33

Why all this fuss? In a democratic society why one cannot express his views in favour a person or another. Did not in the first days of this campaign we had Mr Dom Mintoff expressing his support to Dr Abela. It was all democratically correct. Why now all this fuss in Mr Schulz endorsment of Joe Muscat. Is it as in Maltese we say: l-gheneb qares meta ma tistax tilhqu.

Steven Grech

May 24th 2008, 14:31

*Sniff Sniff* What do I smell? jealousy!

Well done Dr Muscat for thinking "out of the box". It shows that the other potential Labour "leaders" don't understand the concept of political PR! This type of PR might give you an added advantage in mainland Europe, but it might back fire in little Malta.

Nick Borg

May 24th 2008, 14:21

Here we go again... Another example of Labour incompetence! If the party just got to the point and actually chose a leader, rather than dragging it out, then these sort of issues wouldn't arise.

It is starting to look like a kindergarten playground with every candidate running to teacher screaming "unfair..unfair..miss..he did this..or that!"

It would be amusing but for the fact that one of these people might eventually lead the country, although if they carry on like this, it isn't really going to instil much confidence in the general public...

C Calleja

May 24th 2008, 14:13

Joseph's style is modern and European.

The others can get endorsments as well as Abela got Mintoff endorsment, after all.

C. Camilleri

May 24th 2008, 14:08

This has nothing do with Mintoff's endorsement. If that were the case, well..Dr Muscat enjoys the endorsement of Dr. G. Vella. Yet mintoff is an ex-leader, but Mr. Schultz is the current Chairman of the PES.

Joseph Azzopardi

May 24th 2008, 14:07

So now we have a situation where four contenders are NOT supported by Schulz and presumably by the European Socialists. I am in fovour of the proposal that these should come together to form a common front under the leadership of Dr. George Abela to enable the labour delegates to make the right choice.

Muscat is emerging as the one who is very keen on deceiving, hitting below the belt and playing childish games that can only harm the MLP. The party machinery is making sure that the MLP gets the wrong leader if it persists in its support for this particular type of leadership style in the mould of Alfred Sant.

ONLY Dr. George Abela is able to give the MLP the credibility that is sorely needed, now more than ever after this latest twist to an already distorted and manipulated leadership election runup......

My appeal to the other contenders is to face reality and come together for a real change in the MLP that they can architect together with Dr. George Abela as leader.

J Zammit

May 24th 2008, 13:58

This endorsement does nothing but highlights the european credentials of Dr. Muscat and shows that at least one potential leader has a clear view of where Malta should position itself on the international scene. I would love to see who is ready to endorse the other candidates.

These posts do nothing but continue to show the myopia which exists at the grassroots of a party that is now needed more than ever before for this country to move forward. Let us not forget that this is a competition between 5 contenders and the MLP as a party should have nothing to do with it except organise and manage the process. What I find disgusting is Dr. Falzon using his position of Deputy Leader in the letter on a matter which is purely dealing with the leadership contest. We now know why the MLP lost the election but when one sees all the little parts making up the big picture whoever the new leader is will have an uphill struggle to bring about the culture and organisational changes needed to be able to keep up with the PN at the political, policy and organisational levels.

Albert Gauci Cunningham

May 24th 2008, 13:49

1)-----Who brought Mr.Shultz here?? JM himself or the MLp?? Who paid for his trip here?? JM or the MLP coffers??? Why did Mr.Shulz not make his trip here public?? Why all the secrecy??

2)------Wait a minute all you Daleys and A.Cammilleri's!!! Aren't you the same people who told Gunther Verheugen to bite his tongue and called other politicians from the EU talibans because they encouraged us to vote for E.U???? So now it's ok for foreigners to come here and endorse politicians and their policies??

3)------Dear Mr.Shulz since Dr.Sant (who you said will be Pm) has no regrets can you do us a favour and apologise for Dr.Alfred sant's worst mistake which he repeated twice i.e he encouraged people to celebrate a defeat (with all the repercussions that could have led to)?? Or are you going to tell us to forget the past "qisu ma gara xejn" as DR.Sant and Dr.Muscat have told their supporters to do!!!!!!

.........................who's going to save the MLP from this mess????????

Maria Pace

May 24th 2008, 13:48

To Mark Pisani,

In saying that the MLP will have "a poodle controlled by AS at its helm" merely shows that you have no clue about a lot of things: 1.You have no clue whatsoever who is actually Joseph Muscat and who is exactly Alfred Sant. 2.And you also have no clue as to what goes on EXACTLY in the Labour party. 3.You also have no clue how TOTALLY DIFFERENT (and I emphasis on the totally) Joseph Muscat is from AS.

I suggest you gather your facts thoroughly before you draw conclusions please..at least try to learn a little bit more about these 2 diametrically opposed individuals.

D.Dalli

May 24th 2008, 13:47

come on guy! after we managed to establish a good relationship again with the european socialist, (after we have been set aside due to our policy on the EU) we are ruining our good relationship.

what`s wrong with Mr Schulz (as an individual, being in malta on his own will) to endorse joseph muscat!!!!??

more than ever, I am deeply convinced that only with Joseph could the labour party remains a strong pro-eu party.

Sour graes for the other candidates! if they have a good relationship like joseph with any individual from the PES, I`m sure that they would have done the same. And that should be encouraged also!!

Andrew Camilleri

May 24th 2008, 13:45

As usual we are creating a fuss about nothing. Endorsements are part and parcel of today's politics. It's up to the other 4 to find other worthy endorsements

john mangion

May 24th 2008, 13:29

i am now more convinced that a vote to alfred sant's annointed leader will render mlp longer years in oppostion. greater pity to our people and to our nation.

johnny Cardona

May 24th 2008, 13:13

I must express my utter disappointment at the way Dr. Michael Falzon has written this highly emotional letter on behalf of the 4 other contenders, or so he says. Has he written it as a contender for the leadership, or as deputy leader of party affairs? If Dr. Muscat has attracted international support as a contender, what more can he do as a leader? This letter disgraces the signatories, as they now look like school children crying foul because they were not chosen as the class prefect. Mr. Schulz only came here in a positive atmosphere, and whether you agree with him or not, he didn't disapprove of any of the other candidates. Ultimately the MLP forms part of the European Socialists, and I hope that Dr. Michael Falzon does not wish to change that too now.

G.Grima

May 24th 2008, 13:06

I pity the MLP supporters. First they lose the fourth (3 elections and referendum) national poll in a row. Then they are told by their ex leader he has no regrets, then they cannot vote for their new leader but they should leave this to the delegates! (same people who made such a mess of things in the last few elections), then they get the leader of the EUROPEAN group telling them whom to elect! (maybe Martin Schulz is a delegate in pectore!!). I wonder what Dom Mintoff and KMB feel at the moment! What a soap opera this is turning out. The other 4 contenders should throw in the towel. The party machine is great for many things, except win national elections!!

Liam Borg

May 24th 2008, 13:00

What a shame. I, as a University student had and still have faith in Muscat's ideal of a true European Malta and a true Social Europe. Martin Schulz simply expressed his sincere belief that Muscat is the man to steer the Party in this direction. But now it seems the other 4 contenders are crying foul because they have no prominent politicians to give them such an endorsement (save Dom Mintoff perhaps). They would rather live in the past and continue to shoot themselves in the foot. How sad and disgusting. If thats the way you want to steer the Party than so be it. The choice is yours. Keep your antics and your persistent EU skepticism. Continue to shy away from modern politics if it will suit your personal interests. Keep your cliques and your animosity. Keep your distances from the youth. And keep losing. I have never been so hurt. But I will stand up and be counted. I support Joseph Muscat and I am NOT ashamed of it.

K. Mifsud

May 24th 2008, 13:00

First it kicks up a fuss over a poll, now over an endorsement. These things are absolutely normal in elections the world over.

Is the MLP totally unfamiliar with modern democratic process?

You can't preach inclusiveness and then cry 'interference' when somebody - a socialist not the less - participates politically in the process. Like with so many others, the MLP seems not to realise that 'Inclusiveness' is not just a buzz word.

Wistin Schembri

May 24th 2008, 12:54

According to yesterday's The Times report , Mr Schulz "praised Dr Muscat for his 'diplomatic abilities' which, he said, had helped him solve problems within the socialist group."

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080523/local/muscat-wins-endorsement-of-european-socialists-head

I hope that Dr Muscat's diplomatic abilities (by now famous all over Europe) will come in handy to help Mr Schulz him out of this mess.

Tony Muscat

May 24th 2008, 12:52

The MLP leadership contest is already ruined, just as it was ruined when Alfred was elected. if the other contestants are really strong, they should resign en-bloc. Somebody though, should have brought to Mr. Schulz's attention how ANTI-EUROPEAN Joseph Muscat started and how can it be that now he is so much PRO-EUROPEAN! Is it a matter of principles or it is just because it is the best way to achieve high ambitions...no matter which path is followed?

Joseph Mizzi

May 24th 2008, 12:51

Why all this fuss about getting an endorsement from a high-ranking international Socialist official? Aren't all the candidates for the MLP leadership seeking endorsements from the Unions and other constituted bodies, from ex-MLP Prime Ministers, from the ordinary man in the street in the village markets, addirittura from all the MLP well-wishers in the PN camp, etc,etc?
If I were GA, for instance, I would get in contact with the likes of Gunther Verheugen (a high-ranker in the PES) ... I'm sure he'll be happy to oblige.

A Mangion

May 24th 2008, 12:49

An endorsement is only as good as the person giving it, and Schultz isnt exactly a star of world politics now, is he? I mean, had anyone ever heard of this fellow or care what he says? Little wonder the socialists are in opposition even in the European parliament, which is where they should stay.........

A Abela

May 24th 2008, 12:41

It is evident now that Schulz has done more harm than good to Dr. Muscat

C. Said

May 24th 2008, 12:35

Muscat had every right to do so. Just look at American politics as an example, where party bigwigs endorse candidates for the Democrats nomination. Isn't that a normal practise in politics. Apart Schultz, Muscat had other numerous local endorsements ranging from people working in the health sector to renowned political analysts. Rather than envy Muscat's broad support, is it that difficult for the other contenders to find someone who can endorse them?! Come on pls let's start thinking with a European frame of mind!!

David Farrugia

May 24th 2008, 12:34

Abela was endorsed by Mintoff. Muscat was endorsed by Shulz. People analyse and draw opinions accordingly. Other can get their own endorsments if they want. There are lots of influential people out there. Maybe Bush or the Queen.
Futile comments by PN people only confirms their terror of Muscat. In my opinion he will be Gonzi's government bane, which is already ailing at its birth. With Muscat at the helm, and such strong European support, then truly the Maltese will start reaping from their European membership, come 2013.

James De Giorgio

May 24th 2008, 12:34

Seems he's not only Alfred Sant's anointed one...

Mario Bonnici

May 24th 2008, 12:32

I don't think Mr.Schulz needs us to tell him what he has to do or not. He didn't start politics yesterday . If he felt he had to endorse Mr. Muscat good for him. Now it's up to the other leadership contenders to try to get backing from persons of Mr.Schulz calibre. That's what happens abroad. That's what is happening in the US Primary elections. So stop moaning.

All this criticism towards Joseph Muscat continues to convince me that his election as the new labour leader is a matter of days. He's already the nationalists' number 1 target.
Now we have to see what changes he will bring to the party and maltese politics.
Time will tell.

Michael Ellul

May 24th 2008, 12:24

With all due respect Joseph Muscat must be shameful. This is not a question if it is regular or not for him to have shultz backing him but the fact that he brought shulz without the MLP knowledge to gain personally at the detriment of all other contenders is absolutely not a sign of respect and loyalty. How can Joseph Muscat after his try to harm and isolate all other contenders pretend that they will be loyal without hard feelings towards him should he be elected leader. Should he win the MLP will not be united with him due to his childish attitude. Grow and learn what Loyalty means.

E Pulis

May 24th 2008, 12:19

Aren't endorsements like these an important source of information for voters? Eventually, I believe that Martin Schultz will have no problem working together with any of the five contestants. My question is, did Martin Schultz made his endorsement in his personal capacity or as chairman of PES?

A Daley

May 24th 2008, 12:16

“This act, in our opinion, amounts to interference in our Party’s internal matters. Not only so, but we are sure you would agree, that it is the Malta Labour Party as a whole which is a member of the PES, and not just one particular individual, and therefore we expect the PES to disassociate itself categorically and promptly from, and to condemn Mr Schulz's actions.
“We feel that we do not need “Big Brother” to tell us who we should elect as Leader, (they say.)

Is this the way forward? Is this the way to openness? Is this the new thinking of prospective leaders?
Let there be hundreds of whoever they may be and come from whichever country to say what they think and show their opinion.
Do we not do the same thing when we the Maltese comment on or about some prospective candidate in other countries and write in foreign blogs?
Is that not what other prominent leaders are doing regarding the US Democratic race? They all comment on the positive nature of the person who they wish to work with once in office!
Grow up, and embrace Dr. Muscat's new and modern way of thinking!

Michael Gatt

May 24th 2008, 12:13

This is the way the MLP manages its internal matters. This is not the first instance we remember. What does the word fairness mean to them? Imagine this party managing the country! And finally, what about foreign interference? The other 4 contenders surely have the simpathy of all the people of GOOD will.

Joe Cassar

May 24th 2008, 12:11

So now we have a common front against JM.

Given that none of these contestants other than George Abela, stands a chance of beating JM they should unite, swallow their pride and support GA by endorsing him. This would increase the chances of GA being elected and change the current pitiful state of the party.

The party needs a strong leader who can challenge and change the current decision makers in the party. At 34 JM might have succeeded in tackling the red tape and bureaucracy in Brussels, but changing the Labour party is completely different cattle of fish. One needs credibility, clout and experience which come with having a few grey hairs.

JM has been endorsed by his boss because he was a good subordinate - does not equate with being a good leader. Good leaders by definition do not get on well with their bosses as they challenge the status quo - HMMM am I thinking of GA here!

A. Camilleri

May 24th 2008, 12:06

What's the big deal? In this modern world, political endorsements are a way of doing new politics. One can just take a look at the USA and see the endorsements Obama is taking from former leaders and senetors. Come on lets be modern and lets move on.

And cut this poodle thing its pathetic! Then with the same argument Gonzi is a poodle of Fenech Adami who in turn made him President! What's that? A super poodle?

Joseph Azzopardi

May 24th 2008, 12:00

There is no need for any elections for MLP leader. We only have to wait for Mr. Schulz to come over and decide for all of us.......

Is this the way forward the European style?

Marco Cremona

May 24th 2008, 11:48

Everybody is entitled to his/her opinion. As far as I know Mr. Schulz endorsed Joseph Muscat in his own personal capacity.
Don't we all have our preferences? What's wrong in expressing those preferences - in our own personal capacity?

Joseph Muscat has an influential friend among the PES group. What's wrong about that? Didn't Dom Mintoff (certainly another influential personality) express his preference too?

NOEL DARMANIN

May 24th 2008, 11:46

IT IS NOT FAIR TO HAVE SOMEONE HERE TO TELL THE DELEGATES WHO SHOULD THEY CHOOSE,I AGREE WITH THE OTHER FOUR CONTENDERS,JOSEPH MUSCAT DID A GREAT MISTAKE.

j.cutajar

May 24th 2008, 11:45

In my opinion ,something has to be done after this unfair endorsement. I suggest that the other four contenders for the leadership shall call to the electoral commission of the MLP to suspend the Leadership elections to make way for investigations. The fact that the super one news did not gave cover the visit by Mr Schulz, it means that this action was wrong.We must influence the delegates by our personal conviction not by others, This incident surely will harm Dr Muscat chance of being elected. Labour Delegates act with your brain not with your heart. The MLP administration wants to maintain their seats. By electing Dr Muscat nothing will change in MLP

A Abela

May 24th 2008, 11:45

Shame of shames!!!! The other contenders should have called for resignation of Mr. Schulz.

Byron Camilleri

May 24th 2008, 11:43

I don't know why all this fuss by Michael Falzon!

Well Dr.Abela had a previous labour leader supporting him and Muscat has Shulz. Nothing wrong in both cases, in fact they are the two who are doing the best work and both merit a top post in the Labour party...

Dr.Falzon must stop use this word 'fairness' in his speaches, and realize that there is no such thing as fair in the whole world. We live in a real world. If Dr.Falzon, l-iljun tal-bidla, has no high profile supporters, that's his problem and do not complain about the support of others.

Let's hope for an Muscat and Abela leadership!

c calleja

May 24th 2008, 11:42

This type of endorsments happen all over the world.
I cant understand Falzon's reasoning. Another clear sign that he is not leadership material.

M. Brincat

May 24th 2008, 11:37

K. Chircop, true - "these endorsements are really common everywhere", but probably where credibility is not an issue, and not done by such a "Big Brother".

S. Agius

May 24th 2008, 11:33

I believe that as certain MPs have come out in favour of Abela, I believe others, both local and foreign can come out to endorse other candidates. I see no issue with that. However what i honestly cannot see is how is it possible that once Muscat is elected leader of the Labour party, MPs like Falzon can work hand in hand with him when it was and he made it clear too that there was always a strong bias towards Muscat by the party? Or is it politics that we are talking about, and at the end of the day everything is hush hush and forgotten in a couple of weeks time?

p.s. a good idea i believe would have been that instead of enlarging the voting pool extensively which maybe could have been a logistical nightmare at this stage, why not get at least the Labour MPs to cast their vote and give a 50:50 weighting between them and the delegates? That's a fairly simple process i believe at at the end of the day they should have a very strong say in electing their leader!

Frans Sammut

May 24th 2008, 11:29

Hold it, hold it. Why did nobody protest when former MLP leader Dom Mintoff endorsed George Abela, specifically saying, "I did not turn up to see who is right here, but to see my comrade (George Abela) achieve his ambition." Come to think of it, the GOM had already done that in 1998. Nobody seemed to notice!

K. Chircop

May 24th 2008, 11:18

Joseph Muscat and the PES have nothing to be ashamed about. If the Labour Party is not ready to become a European Party and if it is not ready to accept the way how modern politics is done (these endorsements are really common everywhere) than this Party is doomed and I sometimes wonder why I even choose to associate myself with it. What a bunch of sour grapes.

M.Falzon

May 24th 2008, 10:59

As I said yesterday, an endorsement by Schultz is a bad omen indeed. Joseph Muscat may soon learn that to his dismay.

The question now is: If common sense were to take over and Joseph Muscat is not elected, what sort of relations would the new leader have with his/her European leader? Would Abela/Coleiro/Bartolo/Falzon simply shake hands with Herr Schultz and agree to let bygones be bygones?

Dear Joseph Muscat, your sycophantic tendencies will only get you so far. (M Falzon, Naxxar)

Mark Pisani

May 24th 2008, 10:53

Well, this story aside, unfortunately this has been a bad day for Dr. Falzon who has been shot down by the party's internal audit on the election defeat. This, paired with the defeat suffered of Dr. Abela's suggstion at the last general conference, points into one direction, MLP will have a poodle controlled by AS at its helm...

laurence schembri

May 24th 2008, 10:52

Out of order to say the least.

mario debono

May 24th 2008, 10:42

All this endorsement business is highly irregular, and if the MLP wants to retain a modicum of fairness, it should ask Muscat to retract from his leadership bid as the PES have given an unfair apparent advantage to Muscat Endorsements like this do more harm than good , because none of the other contenders can obtain such an endorsement, . Or maybe they are more gentlemanly or gentlewomanly in their conduct..............