'Call me Joseph,' Muscat tells supporters
Joseph Muscat with Maria Camilleri. He told her she should be within the MLP and not at its periphery.
New Labour leader Joseph Muscat held an emotionally charged rally for supporters this morning, telling them to call him Joseph because he was still one of them.
Dr Muscat was given a hero’s welcome at party headquarters and reciprocated by telling everyone “I love you”. He spent quite some time hugging those present and lifting children and was especially warm to two persons who had not backed him in his leadership campaign – Marlene Pullicino and Maria Camilleri.
In a speech interrupted by applause he often went personal, describing what his grandparents, his parents and himself as a child had gone through and even mentioning his wife’s difficult pregnancy, linking all that to the services provided by former Labour governments in the social, educational and medical sectors which had enabled them all to overcome their hurdles.
He again thanked and praised all former Labour leaders, highlighting the contribution which each had given to the party.
He also thanked George Vella for having encouraged him to stand for the Labour Party leadership and for having backed him all the way.
Dr Muscat underlined the importance of unity. He again urged all those who had felt uncomfortable to come back to the party and said that if they didn’t, he would go after them himself. Labour, however, also needed to seek new supporters and it needed to repeatedly ask why it was not attractive enough for them so far. He said labour would admit its mistakes and apologise for them but also recall the good it had done for Maltese society.
Dr Muscat said his message to the Prime Minister was that Labour was “back in business, big time”. The opposition would be firm. It would cooperate with the government on national issues but also insist the government kept every one of its promises.
The new Labour leader also thanked all former Labour ministers and “all” MPs for their service to the party and underscored their role in the future but said nothing about reports that former minister Joe Debono Grech has resigned from the party.
He also thanked former Labour leadership candidates, saying with regard to George Abela that his most important work for the MLP was about to start.
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Louis Grech
Jun 10th 2008, 22:27
Ah yes war on Iraq was important
a mega american embassy is important in the shadow of another conflict with Iran
Massive Russian military manouvers near Malta are important and life goes on !!!
André Xuereb
Jun 10th 2008, 10:44
Ah yes... the provisions for Neutrality and Non-Alignment.... very important nowadays...
martin portelli
Jun 10th 2008, 10:34
Until Joseph Muscat has the courage to drop Jason Micallef and remove embedded ticks I'll call 'Ishmael" and see him growing grim about the mouth; with a damp, drizzly November in his soul bringing up the rear of a particular funeral procession. Well if his doublespeak on Bondi is anything to go by.
Alberto Bonavia
Jun 10th 2008, 10:19
Joseph will be a leader that would REALLY change the way politics is done in Malta. Gonzi had promised the same thing when elected leader but so far his 'new way of doing politics' hasnt taken off. Just look at the way appointments were awarded during the past 2 months.
As for the Labour Party, a change in its administration is needed, particularly Jason Micallef who seems to be pushing himself too hard lately and without knowing is undermining Joseph's image.
Louis Grech
Jun 9th 2008, 22:50
Just seen Joseph on Bondi plus
He hopes to have the same success as Tony Blair but would not do mistakes like the Iraq war........Well done Joseph.......in our case defend the constitution provision for Neutrality and non alignment and actively work for peace that would give you extra stamina!
Steve Evans
Jun 9th 2008, 21:44
"Joseph" Hug as many children as you can, but don't forget they will be your future voters. Time to forget the past, move on and look to the future. Congratulations from an expat.
Joseph Caruana
Jun 9th 2008, 19:58
@ Maria Pace.
Back then the PN different fragments showed more, and no one imagined that HE would win the election, how the PN party was, this is followwed by how certain ex-ministries react once there place was no more.
Albert gauci Cunningham
Jun 9th 2008, 16:25
Up to now Jospeh has shown to be a million times better than Dr.Alfred Sant whom I will always remember as a very angry politician with an axe to grind who I ( and the majority) didn't trust and who left the MLP in shambles.......so PROSIT JM........obviuosly this is just the aftermath and its still the very beginning.....but I have this nagging feeling that IF (note the IF PLS) he fails it would be thanks to someone..........which reminds me...
JOE GALEA-----What took you so long to realise how arrogant and politically opportunistic J.Micallef was???? And please, although it wasn't me you were referring to please don't use the word "venom" .....criticism is just that....you may disagree completely and think an opinion is rubbish but stop this venom thing, its too reminiscent of the Paranoic Sant days..........I watch One News everyday and the criticism towards Gonzi was/is non-stop!! So what?? Its One's opinion....I disagree but I dont go around screaming blue murder!!!!!......Nothing personal but thats what I think about it!!!
A Mangion
Jun 9th 2008, 15:14
Joseph was a very good choice. As a Labourite im proud to have joseph as my leader.
Next step for the Labour Party is to get rid of Jason. Delegates must understand this.
The election should be fair because thats democracy but delegates must understand that jason is a liability for the party.
Daniel Micallef
Jun 9th 2008, 14:37
Been waiting for this moment for a long time. Finally, a fresh approach in Maltese politics. Joseph is showing that he's the man that will turn this country's faith in the near future. Those who were sceptical about him got the answer yesterday. First, the internal earthquake needed in the Labour Party, and then the country.
Joseph Masini
Jun 9th 2008, 14:35
I fully agree with Mario Borg and Micheal Vella. Joe Debono Grech had suffered a lot in the past fifty years because of his political convictions. Joe Debono Grech, former Minister and deputy leader of the Labour Movement, has done a great deal for the working class and the most poor.
If Dr. Joseph Muscat were to be credible about unifying the party he must, for on thing, reinstate the hon. Debono Grech to his previous post as a member of the Parlamentary Group in the Council of Europe.
The proof of the pudding is in the eating, not in the SPEAKING.
Maria Dolores Fenech
Jun 9th 2008, 14:15
It is good to see 'old faces' in the rally at the CNL. Welcome back.
I now urge the 'others' to do the same: Prof Dominic Fenech, Alfred Mifsud, Dr Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici, Dom Mintoff, Dr Sant and those who did not attend the rally, Dr Michael Falzon, Dr George Abela and Dr Marie Louise Coleiro Preca. Please accept the invitation sent by Dr Muscat for the sake of the MLP and Malta.
David Gatt
Jun 9th 2008, 14:13
@F.Camilleri
I think that you are daydreaming. Gonzi will be lucky to keep up in government for 5 whole years.
Miguel Fenech
Jun 9th 2008, 13:10
His style and image should be sufficient to get a good first impression of Joseph Muscat. Of course, actions speak louder than words and I'm sure he's capable of bringing change to MLP and Malta. He already managed in widely opening MLP's door. There is no need to refer to this matter as "acceptance" of lost sheep. All are welcome. As Joseph rightly said, MLP will become Malta's largest production plant of new ideas. He has already started personally running after individuals who still have a lot to contribute to MLP and Malta. He already stated that in matters of national interest he will definitely work hand in hand with PN. He is always calm, consistent and smiling. Isn't this what all Malta thought MLP needed? His young age is not a problem at all. In the European Parliament he was successful without experience. In Malta, Gonzi was applauded for putting new inexperienced blood in Cabinet. Why should inexperience be a problem for Joseph? Give Joseph time (at least as much time as you give Gonzi for carrying out his promises) and you will not regret it. This is truly the beginning of a new political era in Malta.
M. Galea
Jun 9th 2008, 11:18
Although I have always voted Nationalist, I do not consider myself a diehard, as I wouldn't hesitate to vote otherwise should my conscience permit me to do so. I was seriously looking into Joseph Muscat's idealogies and I have one small suggestion to make. He should get rid of Jason Micallef and co. As long as I keep seeing these guys by his side, Labour hasn't changed at all, and I can never trust them. Didn't you think it was pathetic how Jason hid from the media over the last couple of months after the election defeat, and then was the first to run up on the stage to get his share of Joseph Muscat's moment of glory?
adriana chircop
Jun 9th 2008, 09:12
Over the next couple of weeks Joseph will prove himself and we will see him tackle two main criticisms that have been levelled against mainly by those who serve the Nationalist cause.
1] HIS RELATIVELY YOUNG AGE DOES NOT MEAN HE IS INEXPERIENCED
2] HE IS HIS OWN MAN AND NO ALFRED SANT PUPPET. NOW WE WILL SEE MUCH NEEDED CHANGE IN THE PARTY. UNFORTUNATELY THOSE WHO SERVED SOMETIMES IN THEIR SELF INTEREST HAVE NOT ACHIEVED THE DESIRED RESULTS. They must recognize the signs and move on so that LABOUR WILL SURGE FORWARD WITH NEW INVIGORATING BLOOD.
WELL DONE JOSEPH AND MICHELLE
Maria Pace
Jun 9th 2008, 08:30
Dear Joseph Caruana,
Correct me if I'm mistaken but Lawrence Gonzi only got 51% of the delegates' votes when he was elected leader which is much less than what Joseph got. Thus 49% "is a huge amount of delegates showing no support as a block vote for" Gonzi but he succeeded.
Let's give this guy a chance please before we fire our loaded canons.
Joe Galea
Jun 9th 2008, 08:14
From what we are experiencing, it is truly a new beginning for MLP and also for the country. Yes everyone is welcome.
Re-Jason, hopefully MLP sets elections for the administration as early as possible and the delegates will send a sound NO to Jason Micallef. Joseph Muscat can't force him to resign, though everyone including me wish that he is sent out of space where he is not seen or heard anymore. Now it's up to the delegates to make more good choices if they truly believe in a new bright stronger Labour.
All those posting here spitting venom at JM should be ashamed of themselves as he is showing to be the leader that this country needs. He is an example of how a true politician should be. Keep it up Joseph, and how the Italian saying goes: "Fatti Valere".
Joseph Caruana
Jun 9th 2008, 02:59
One should never lift his feet from the ground,
Mostly at this point in the MLP history, the saga of this all, must be cheered once the reforms are done and not commenting about words spoken in speeches to make things looking pretty!
Surely a 33% is a huge amount of delegates showing no support as a block vote for Muscat.
With the party having three majority wins over the 50 years, mentioning on the first speech that in 2013 there will be a labour surely gives (false) hope to labour supports, Muscat should replace not only faces but the whole back stage lot that have been within the MLP walls since Mintoff and KMB eras.
So rather then aiming at scoring away, Muscat should focus on scoring Home firstly.
Well, Good Luck to Him, and I hope a honeymoon will be given to the current labour administration after all now its seems that the GonziPN government have increased by two chairs, thus removing any former ideas that the government would call an early election. And thanks that there is a Gonzi rather then an Alfred Sant or a Mintoff as PM - because Malta would be in worst shape!
F.Camilleri
Jun 9th 2008, 01:14
What's this with PN supporters celebrating the appointment of Doctor Muscat as leader of the MLP ?!!!...... Not sure if its going to be that healthy having PN in government for the next 15 years or more ! Nice choice indeed Labour delegates ! (Well they always make the perfect choice !)
Charles Cassar
Jun 9th 2008, 01:05
Welcome back on board to all those who made the right decision and accepted Joseph's invitation. In two days Muscat has already instilled fresh air in the party and this seems to continue in the coming days and weeks. He insisted that for those who will not come, he will go for them. These are signs of good leadership. To lead is to serve and Joseph already started serving the party.
I hope that this attitude will continue and after the election to reappoint new deputy leaders a new administration wioll also be appointed. We need fresh minds to help Joseph win. Everyone is valid and people like Jason will still be useful in other roles. But it is vital at this stage to have a new secretary to shoulder this job. people like Alfred Grixti are needed to assist joseph and the new leadership.
Good luck.
David Gatt
Jun 9th 2008, 00:12
This has been a great speech by Joseph. The return of so much known faces that had left years ago surely is a healthy sign. And I am sure that in next week's rally we'll have even more surprises!
Silvan Cutajar
Jun 9th 2008, 00:00
Welcome back Joe Grima. U prosit.
C.Camileri
Jun 8th 2008, 23:40
J Bartolo, for you information, our great first Leader dom Mintoff, was 1 year younger then Joseph! And he gave us a 15yr government. I am very convinced that Joseph will be our new Mintoff
Joseph Grech-Attard
Jun 8th 2008, 23:27
Why do some say that Joe Debono Grech left because he is hurt? Hurt about what, may i ask? I feel sure that what he just did is for the good of the MLP. Only time will tell.
Kevin Chircop
Jun 8th 2008, 22:55
I can see that the earthquake that Joseph Muscat mentioned is already having it's aftershocks within the Labour and also not so labour supporters,JM is there to set new standards in politics, differing on ideology and policies but still keeping in mind that we are all Maltese and want to be the Benchmark in Europe for all other countries.
I think all those columnists from both ends of the spectrum that are used to spewing all their hatred against one leader or other will need to change their attitude quickly if they want to remain credible. There will be no space for fabricated lies anymore or writing nuisance that clearly has nothing to do with the job of Prime Minister or Opposition Leader.
We can see this happening already even in thestring of messages. People being asked to moderate their language and be more respectful to others who have served their country at the best of their knowledge.
I am relieved and hopeful that Malta will have a strong opposition that by time will truly be a government in waiting. I just hope that the columnists mentioned before give democracy a chance by keeping with the truth.
M. Camilleri
Jun 8th 2008, 22:19
@Joe Grima :
Sorry for my misunderstanding then. But being invited is the first step towards being accepted, don't you think? You yourself has witnessed the warm welcome you were given. Your words fill me with hope for a very bright MLP future.
Emmanuel Mazzitelli
Jun 8th 2008, 21:59
@Joseph Caruana
You are not a stupid person, surely you can do better than this. Let us all in this country shed away prejudice and ignorance and comment more objectively.
These blogs should be meant to animate interesting, intelligent discussions. Being blinkered serves no good. It shows intollerance, unwarranted antagonism, bitterness and negativism.
E.Grima
Jun 8th 2008, 21:59
I am proud to be labour. Joseph speech was a breath of fresh air. I like everyone on board. I admire Charles Mangion a lot too, he should remain as deputy leader.
Joe Grima
Jun 8th 2008, 21:30
M Camilleri: I was not "accepted back". I was " invited back". I went there for Joseph , who personally invited me to the event and in whom I have the fullest confidence. I also ejoyed the thrill of being in the company of my own kinsmen for the first time in sixteen years. For me, my presence was no casual occurence. It celebrated the end of the Sant regime and the beginning of Joseph's days of hope for the MLP.
I am thankful to former colleagues who I had not seen in years, and to many of the people who were there, Maltese and Gozitans for the warm welcome they gave me. My most heartfelt word of gratitude goes to Joseph himself . When he stopped to greet me , before we embaraced , he kept repeating "Merhba Joe, Merhba" over and over again.
I have been shooting my mouth off since I was fifteen . Joseph was the first man ever to render me speechless . As the emotion surged I could not even say thankyou to his sweet wife for telling me again and again "Grazzi talli Gejt". This Party led by Joseph has a great future.
Silvan Cutajar
Jun 8th 2008, 21:15
Very good first days for Joseph. I am sure every few days JM will bring someone back into labour and build a new political approach for labour. What a shame 5 years with Sant were wasted! Anyway...at least the future holds better light in store.
J. Stivala
Jun 8th 2008, 20:53
Dr Muscat's speech this morning was invigorating and I hope that one of the "victims" of the impending "earthquake" will be Jason Micallef.
J Bartolo
Jun 8th 2008, 20:29
Has JDG resigned because he thinks that it's going to be more of the same?!!
We will have to see how Dr. J. Muscat is going to perform, but for certian he needs to prepare himself better for the speaches and answering to the media. First impressions count alot, and will put labour off the reserve bench... but against the pn the talk needs to be extremely well thought, people need to be convinced and what they are going to be seeing most is the media. So please let's start being convincing... and wipe out all doubts.
The major point which Joseph has got against him is his age, as many and with good reason i have to say, think that he cannot have enough experience to lead the party, and to a certain point this is true... as i think Joseph is now the youngest leader we ever had if not the youngest in Europe.
Joseph, if i may call you so... please get rid of the cliques, get the current admin to resign, give us a new face, credibility and the nation will surely reward you for the effort and good work!!
Michael Debono
Jun 8th 2008, 20:18
Don't think that Joe Debono Grech is not a Labourite. Don't think that he is selfish. He is hurt but he has a golden heart. He will never betray the MLP he will never vote to save the P.N. 100% sure.Just as others were approached he will surely be approached and matters will settle down. One can assume somehow the problem. He wants to remain an MP and he will remain an MP not otherwise. He does not like to be pressured.
PHILIP BORG
Jun 8th 2008, 19:54
Joseph Muscat is my young friend. A friend who grew to reach the highest post of serving Labour. Joe Debono Grech is my old time friend. What unites us is our loyalty to Labour’s service to the country.
I know Joe for decades. His long years of experience would make him impulsive at times, but equally sincere and loyal! He will ever disregard the hardship and political discrimination he had to endure under PN regimes. Nor would he forget what thousands of co-labourites had to endure and for whom he has strived to defend!
The sad news about Joe goes definitely above my understanding. My immediate reaction is to ask Joe to reconsider seriously and not ruin his reputation for long standing loyalty!
Comments of “good riddance” can only come from those who know nothing about loyalty to the country. But alas! It’s their usual hobby of attacking Labour anyway, anytime!
I am sure that Joe will never allow his perpetual political opponents enjoy such sad news. I am likewise sure that Joe was today united with us all listening to Joseph’s speech… and endorsed very emotionally as much as I did each word Joseph uttered on our behalf!
adriana chircop
Jun 8th 2008, 19:26
Joseph has the courage to stand up for what he believes in. He is secure and self confident because because he projects a vision which is born out of his innermost convictions, values and believes. Even though Joseph and Michelle are both relatively young , THEY ARE NOT INEXPERIENCED. They have together accumulated a wealth of experience both within and outside the party. I AM SURE THAT JUST AS JOSEPH HAS PROVED HIMSELF AS A TRUELY INSPIRATIONAL MEP, HE WILL BE AN INSPIRATIONAL LEADER OF THE LABOUR PARTY AND MOST IMPORTANT A INSPIRATIONAL PRIM MINISTER.
JOSPEH , YOU HAVE REKINDLED OUR HOPE AND FIRED OUR ENTHUSIASM . You are a winner because you are a motivator AND AN ACHIEVER. MAY All Malta share in your achievement.
PHILIP BORG
Jun 8th 2008, 19:07
Joseph Muscat has set the best example of what political service should mean - arms wide open to embrace all and lead all, without fail and in an untiring manner! Your determination to welcome all and if need be set out yourself to bring all those who are hesitant, is in itself the highest level of service you will give Labour and Malta! At your young age, today you have set a big example to all seasoned leaders or veterans in the political scenario!!
Once, many years ago, it was said for Mintoff that Malta is lucky to have the leader that it badly desired in the hour of need... Your meaningful speech today will make us all repeat – even more eloquently – that saying: Malta needs YOU now. As from NOW, lead us Joseph. We are all one with you! The only way is forward!
PHILIP BORG
Jun 8th 2008, 19:06
I have never had a problem to show my dedication to Labour - no matter the pains i had to endure over the years. I have never had a problem to express my full loyalty to social democratic principles within Labour. I have never hesitated to give my full support to all Leaders i had the honour to serve - Dom Mintoff, Karmenu and Alfred Sant.
It is now my pride to declare all my loyalty to their young successor - Joseph! I followed the leadership campaign with all the attention and appreciation possible. All five contenders have made Labour proud of its resources, of its history and its achievements. The democratic process however demands intelligent choices at the end of any campaign: the Party chose Joseph and i have no doubt that Labour will be proud of its choice on June 6.
Joseph’s maiden speech today showed all the qualities that make a Leader - vision, clarity, determination, charisma, and an untiring sense of service to our country!
Charles J Buttigieg
Jun 8th 2008, 18:10
Christmas came early this year.The positive mood at Hamrun,most of the Sunday Papers, Television and bloggers from all sides of our political arena are in a festive mood that reminds me of the inauguration speech of our Archbishop.
Joseph brought the early Christmas about and is giving out the oxygen for a national reconciliation. I appeal to all those of good will not to stand in the way of the bridge which Joseph started today. Joe Debono-Grech is a kind hearted individual but like many of us very spontaneous. Appreciate whatever had hurt him and instead of attacking be kind and remember that he still feels one of us. No doubt Joseph will be knocking on his door to ask him to come home
Jason Vella
Jun 8th 2008, 17:20
As a labourite who always voted labour:-
Joe Debono Grech is one of us, even though he feels unhappy at the moment. We as Labourites will continue to love him as we did in the past.
I appeal to all not to call him names or insults - the man suffered a lot in the past for what we believe in. Slowly he will feel comfortable again and return with us.
Joe Debono Grech - good bless you; We need you back
Stephen Abela
Jun 8th 2008, 16:27
As I described in previous comments , I was all out for George but I have to admit Joseph was 300% good today . Tears went to my eyes when I saw him embrace Maria Camilleri and M.Pullicino ! He discussed ST and D.Yard issues and he said he will help he government to help him keep the said jobs ! That s what I wanted to hear since years ! His image with his wife is superb ! He like jokes too ! Come on Joseph go for MICHAEL , GORG and Marie LOUISE too ! make them feel important and part of the team , and you would convince me 100% ! If the proof of the pudding is in the eating ! Today I enjoyed the first bite !
JOHN SCERRI
Jun 8th 2008, 16:21
Yesterday's and Today's event plus others to come will show how stupid and irresponsible one can be when one does not appreciate the valuable experienced assets who work around and inside one's team irrespective of their sometimes different opinions on certain issues.
Dr.Joseph Muscat is rightfully opening doors which have been closed for many years because of bad management and hard headedness.
Joseph Muscat's attitude towards Dr.Gonzi and vice versa is different in a positive way , and hopefully will also be so towards our President who has been partially boycotted by MLP leadership. May this change as well.
The healthy part is that it seems there will be an opposition which will be dynamic and proactive in keeping the govt. on guard . Time will tell.
Yes ..The opposition must be vigilant and critical but at the same time should be included around the discussion tables.
Issues ,especially those of national interest must be dealt with including both sides of the house to voice ideas and proposals from all.
May this be the beginning of mature politics for all .
WE are all Maltese before we are of any political creed.
Malta will become an example for many countries.
Joseph Caruana
Jun 8th 2008, 16:19
At this moment, the MLP is at its best in unity!
Even from the picture, one can see handle of the present 'magna' people, is this the change?
Poor the Labour 'poplin' Voters.
Bill Millam
Jun 8th 2008, 16:18
Re: Joe Debono Grech and his resignation from the MLP - Good riddance!
He was one of the harshest and meanest ministers under that dictator Dom Mintoff's regime of the 70s and 80s. Joe Debono Grech and Lorry Sant were both in a class by themselves, rude and arrogant!
Bill Millam
Maria Pace
Jun 8th 2008, 16:17
Before I say anything, I have to say that I was slightly dubious about Joseph's candidature although I knew he's got never-ending potential. Any doubts which I held were instantly wiped out today when I heard his speech at the party headquarters.
timesofmalta.com couldn't have reported the event any better...it was REALLY "an emotionally charged rally". I'm starting to believe that Joseph Muscat is the epitome of unity. The flawless way he spoke and seeing people who have left the party return this morning such as Alex Sciberras Trigona, Maria Camilleri, and Joe Grima to name a few, was indeed very emotional. Moreover, the fact that outside the headquarters was packed with young people made me feel at home since I am a first-time voter too.
Joseph is growing in his leadership and public speaking skills day by day and likewise my personal faith in him.
F. Spiteri
Jun 8th 2008, 16:09
to C Darmanin - we can already see an exciting future for Malta with Lawrence Gonzi as prime minister......No need for a new labour party leader to hope for that. This new leadership might help to make things a bit more interesting for the labour party though, even though 'this young man' seems to be a bit too overconfident in this position for his age !
josette pace
Jun 8th 2008, 15:44
congrats from a pn supporter.....probably the first one here.... but how i do agree with mr Andre Xuereb.......one of the ppl who made me literally go running to vote my not so beloved party anymore.....him and others who made me feel i m back in the early eightees
Silvan Cutajar
Jun 8th 2008, 15:35
I must admit I originally slightly favoured GA and was happy with both JM and GA as leaders. After Joseph's first days I must say I am happy he was chosen leader. I think when he declared no one is behind him, he meant there is no compromise with anyone. This is important. next week labour needs two moderate deputy leaders. Then shortly after a good administration (meaning it does not include Jason Micallef). GA should be a highly involved person in the ranks. The contestants for leader the same. And ultimately a return by many who left in recent years. The Union and any other entity within the left in this country must ride this wind of change too.
L. Grech
Jun 8th 2008, 15:20
Is Joseph + Jason the winning formula? I doubt it!
A Daley
Jun 8th 2008, 14:58
Dear Mario Gauci, have you forgotten that people had been celebrating all night, and today is a Sunday?
Silvan Cutajar
Jun 8th 2008, 14:57
Debono Grech should choose reason if what is reported is true. It is a time of unification and not divide.
Monica Harper
Jun 8th 2008, 14:43
Congratulations and well done Joseph Muscat on your winning for the MLA leadership no doubt you will be a good leader
André Xuereb
Jun 8th 2008, 14:32
Now if only he could get rid of Prince Smiley as soon as possible!
J. Borg
Jun 8th 2008, 14:13
Dear Joseph,
Please reconsider your decision to send Joe Debono Grech to the European Parliament - it's an opportunity to show all and sundry that Labour has truely changed....and for the better!
Charles J Buttigieg
Jun 8th 2008, 14:12
My support for Joseph's candidature was made public from the outset but if I had the slightest doubt about my choice it was totally wiped out today. Our Leader is a unifying instrument. As for the resignation of Joe Debono Grech I will not make a comment or pass a judgment but will convey a short message to him. Now is the time to demonstrate that you are one for the party and its people, do not give service to your adversaries even though they will support you for it. You had pleased your life time political enemies and pained your lifetime admirers.
mario borg
Jun 8th 2008, 14:08
perfectly in agreement with michael vella. Attacking people, especially long serving persons who have suffered immensely during the past half a century because of the political beliefs as joe debono grech surely did, is something that must stop. Apart from highlighting a memory of a gold fish, it also gives the wrong message. While J.Muscat is trying to bring back the 'lost sheep', those feeling hurted or uneasy are being labelled! MLP must stop committing the same old mistakes and instead must try to understand what drives people like debono grech reacting in such a way.
M. Camilleri
Jun 8th 2008, 14:08
It was a very emotional speech. He is much more accessible than A.Sant and has very good public speaking skills.
But the part i liked best was mentioning both Maria Camilleri and Marlene Pullicino. And accepting back again Joe Grima. Hope others follow.
And stressing that GA's work inside MLP has just begun is another great news.
That's the way to go...
Frans Sammut
Jun 8th 2008, 13:56
That's the spirit! From now on, the sky's the limit.
Marthese Fenech
Jun 8th 2008, 13:54
I watched Joseph during his american style speech and although it was stated that "all" former MPs and ministers were invited- there was a no show from Mintoff, Karmenu M Bonnici and Alfred Sant. (not to mention Debono Grech).
By the way, I wonder if Kate Gonzi loves me!
Good luck Joseph
Tony Pace
Jun 8th 2008, 13:52
At last ... some invigorating fresh air.
Genuine enthisiasm has a habit of .. infecting people!
There will be difficulties around ... but let's all hope Joseph will persevere ... in his positive attitude/s.
Good luck Malta!
donald muscat
Jun 8th 2008, 13:48
It's better not to comment about Joe Debono Grech, I'm sure that the new leader will convince him to come back. He's a typical Laburist 'kelb jinbah ma jigdimx'. We cannot repeat the same mistake that we did in 1998 at birgu by insulting. From now on it's a different story.
Michael Vella
Jun 8th 2008, 13:42
Why is it that Labour supporters turn around and attack people who have loyally represented their party for over 40 years, such as Joe Debono Grech, simply because he seems to feel hurt by decisions taken by his party. Its happened before to people like Mintoff and from what i see Dr. Muscat is trying to eliminate these ill feelings within the party, even referring to Mintoff as the father of the Labour Party in his opening speech.
I suggest the way forward for Labour is to stop attacking these people, in a manner similar to how R. Mangion and J. Azzopardi attacked him below, and try to get these people back into the party, as Dr. Muscat is trying to do - and may i add correctly so.
Mario Bonnici
Jun 8th 2008, 13:35
Today's rally was an emotional one indeed. Was nice to see many former MP's and ministers back at the Labour Headquarters. Of course there's much more work to be done. But I have faith in Joseph.
Good Luck.
G. Camilleri
Jun 8th 2008, 13:33
Now, we all hope that Joseph will stand by what he already declared. Get rid of all those who were responsible for Labour's third defeat. If not, the fourth one is round the corner.
Joseph Agius
Jun 8th 2008, 13:32
The more he keeps Jason smiling by his side, the more resignations he's going to get. And yes, I do confirm that Jason never hugged me!
R Mangion
Jun 8th 2008, 13:21
Re Debono Grech's resignation........ no big loss
C. Darmanin
Jun 8th 2008, 13:18
What an excellent start....This young man won't take too long to win the hearts of those who are willing to see a better Malta....no matter what colour.
Keep up the good work. I can see an exciting future for both the labour Party, and most importantly Malta.
Mario Gauci
Jun 8th 2008, 13:17
It seems that the "earthquake of change" has already started and Joseph's honeymoon period has ended before it even started.
Am not at all surprised that many of the labour leaning commentators have not as yet said anything here. Could it be that this bombshell was unexpected?
J. Azzopardi
Jun 8th 2008, 12:56
From a stalwart like Joe Debono Grech the news is anathema. All i can say is - if the news is true - IMISSEK TISTHI MINNEK INNIFSEK.