Herman Grech
Ex-political heavyweights mooted as next President
Spiteri, Bonello on Labour's list so far
Three former political heavyweights seem to be the frontrunners at this stage to succeed Eddie Fenech Adami as President after his five-year term ends on April 4.
European Commissioner Joe Borg, Speaker Louis Galea and former Finance Minister Lino Spiteri are thought to be the leading candidates as the government again looks to appoint the head of state from the political class.
It is understood that the government and opposition will attempt to agree on a name, though the Prime Minister will decide who to put forward - after seeking the consent of the person concerned. The next President will then be elected after a simple majority vote in Parliament.
Dr Borg and Dr Galea have both had prominent political careers in the Nationalist Party, and they have earned broad respect in recent months as European Commissioner and Speaker respectively.
It remains to be seen whether the opposition will object to either of the two, since Labour leader Joseph Muscat has made it clear he would like to see a symbol of national unity.
Dr Galea, 61, had been elected to every legislature since 1976, but missed out on a parliamentary seat in the election last March. He is known to be one of the island's top strategists.
Former Foreign Minister Joe Borg's term as Fisheries Commissioner comes to an end in November, and it is not yet known whether the 56-year-old EU expert wishes to relinquish his post in Brussels.
If he were nominated for President, the government would have to select a new Commissioner, which is likely to cause changes in the administration's structure.
However, sources say Dr Gonzi is also mulling the possibility of opting for 70-year-old Mr Spiteri.
Mr Spiteri resigned abruptly from politics in 1997 after falling out with Labour leader Alfred Sant and he has since moulded an image as a moderate observer in his written contributions to the press.
Ironically, Mr Spiteri's nomination could cause division within the Labour Party, since some individuals, particularly supporters of Dr Sant, are vehemently opposed.
Mr Spiteri has not yet been sounded out about the post, but sources within the Labour Party say Mr Muscat is expected to do so shortly.
However, the Labour leader has spoken to Judge Giovanni Bonello, who sits on the European Court of Human Rights, about the possibility of putting his name forward for the post. Judge Bonello is an acclaimed historian, archivist, collector and one of the most prolific authors about Maltese culture, history and heritage.
When contacted, the Office of the Prime Minister refused to discuss names, saying several people were being considered at this stage.
However, Dr Muscat told The Sunday Times: "My priority would be to find a nominee who symbolises national unity, somebody who will hopefully gather the support of both sides of the House."
Reluctant to name his preferences, Dr Muscat said the country had a unique opportunity to opt for a President acceptable to both parties for the first time since Anthony Mamo's nomination in 1974.
Presidents of Malta
Anthony Mamo: 1974-76
Anton Buttigieg: 1976-81
Agatha Barbara: 1982-87
Ċensu Tabone: 1989-94
Ugo Mifsud Bonnici: 1994-99
Guido de Marco: 1999-2004
Eddie Fenech Adami: 2004-2009
63 Comments
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A. Mizzi
Jan 6th 2009, 21:41
Why a simple majority vote in Parliament?
The President of Malta should represent and strife towards unification of the people of Malta, and not be associated with a choice of a less than one seat majority in parliament .
david borda
Jan 6th 2009, 18:53
This debate occurs every 5 years.
I think the President should have a political background as well as a good mediator. With a political background he can understand the 'politics' and therefore helps him make a better job. Not that someone apolitical won't do!
There are many valid current and ex-politicians from both political spectrums that I believe deserve it. I have my own personal opinions regarding the person but if one goes back in the years one might find ex-parliamentarians who fit in this category.
I think the Government is open minded enough to choose the right person for the job.
M Vella
Jan 6th 2009, 16:54
given his link to the 80's the choice of Louis Galea at this specific juncture in our history will be a terrible one if not addirittura catastrophic
Miriam Ellul
Jan 6th 2009, 14:42
How about Prof. Oliver Friggieri ? He sure has all the good qualities of a president!!
No political ties,intellectual, patriotic, attentive, and humble. I can see no better candidate.
maria curmi
Jan 6th 2009, 11:38
How about Norman lowell ???come on be smart don't you know that he is already chosen but not declared !!!!
normal citizens
Dr Marc Sant
Jan 6th 2009, 11:09
How about the former Ombudsman Joe Sammut??
Francis Attard
Jan 6th 2009, 10:49
This discussion about who has to be president of our country is, in my opinion, useless. After all how many out there really care who gets the salary of a president. Arguing that the president should be someone outside the political scene, so that he or she would be accepted by all, is childish. By the same reasoning, there should also be a government that will satisfy everyone. And that will be even more acceptible, and everyone would live happily ever after.
Joe Galea
Jan 6th 2009, 08:29
Let's bet the new president is a blue-eyed boy!!!
Very unifying indeed!! If the Pn keeps the trend the next president is an ex-PN MP, just to keep the tradition.
This is a joke of a country!!!
It is much better to find ways of how to kick Gonzi & Co. in the butt and elect a new government!!
Enzo Caruana
Jan 5th 2009, 22:03
@ Joe Grima
You wrote: "The suggestion that Giovanni Bonello is proposed by the LP simply provides further evidence of the long list of Sant preferences that Joseph does not have the strength to refuse".
On what basis are you presenting this asumption? Giovanni Bonello is an eminent judge, a learned scholar and prolific writer of substance and an honoured upright citizen without blemish or baggage. I do not think that Sant has got anything to do with this. Joseph Muscat has proved more than once that he has a mind of his own and your remark belies the enthusiasm you had shown on his election.
wally vella-zarb
Jan 5th 2009, 19:49
Mr Graham, ideally, the President ought to be a unifying figure for the entire nation and not a divisive one. Image is one part of it, to be sure; so, you will learn (eventually), is his track record and two years is too short an exposure to form a meaningful, relevant, assessment.
Raymond Camilleri
Jan 5th 2009, 19:21
@ James Graham
I think everybody will agree that Dr Fenech Adami discharged his post with dignity and poise. However as a recent party leader who practically made himself President of Malta against the wishes of the vast majority of the Maltese, he will only go down in history as a good politician but not as a President who enjoyed the support of all Maltese whilst in office. I just hope Dr Gonzi will now rise above politics and appoint a non-political person who will represent all Maltese citizens (and permanent residents). I agree with the majority writing on this topic that Judge Giovanni Bonello would be a perfect choice.
Marcel Dingli
Jan 5th 2009, 18:31
Spiridione Sant for President !!!!! Second choice : Richard Sultana.
Frans Sammut
Jan 5th 2009, 14:46
@Gianluca Barbieri
You said you read the following in the Maltese Constitution:
A person shall not be qualified to be appointed to the office
of President if -
(a) he is not a citizen of Malta; or
(b) he holds or has held the office of Chief Justice or other
Judge of the Superior Courts; or
(c) he is not eligible for appointment to or to act in any
public office in accordance with articles 109, 118 and
120 of this Constitution.
So how did you reach the conclusion that the learned Giovanni Bonello is not eligible to hold the post of President of Malta?
Francis Attard
Jan 5th 2009, 14:07
The best man in this country who is the most suitable to be president, although he is unknown to many, is Gorg tal-Birgu, if he is still alive. Oh, if everyone was like him!!!!!! A great person, who I doubt if he ever was even cosidered to receive a republic honour.
James Graham
Jan 5th 2009, 13:23
As a permanent resident of Malta since 2006, I would like to say how much Eddie Fenech Adami has impressed me as president.
He has discharged his post with dignity and poise, offering a great image of a fine independent country.
Tonio Tanti
Jan 5th 2009, 08:33
@Joe Grima
It's grossly unfair, even preposterous, to label the impartial and apolitical learned Judge Giovanni Bonello as anybody's favourite. He fully deserves EVERYONE'S support, irrespective of political leanings, for the simple reason that he's the outstanding non-political Maltese personality that comes to mind for such a prestigious post. And being proposed by Alfred Sant for a top European post or nominated by the PL for the presidency should in no way hinder his deserved candidature.
Ronald Cauchi
Jan 5th 2009, 06:32
Mickey Mouse for president! He has all the right attributes and is well acquainted with this country.All we need to do is give him a passport prior to his nomination.
Matthew Agius
Jan 4th 2009, 22:55
I do believe that Judge Bonello would be also a good option. However I do not understand the fire-fighting alarms towards political figures. Political contribution to our country is as honourable as any other contribution to a nation.
Not agreeing with a man's political work is as though not agreeing with a modern artist because you do not fancy modern art. Yet his work is still honourable, and should be appreciated.
I believe that whether the chosen one is a political figure or not, should not be a criterion. whilst choosing. The importance is the value of his contributions and whether the figure is respected/respectable both locally and internationally.
Joe Grima
Jan 4th 2009, 21:05
All three of the names suggested , Lino Spiteri, Louis Galea and Prof Bonello woudl fill the shoes of the next President of the Republic with honour. However, It was being suggested in these colums some days ago, that the next President should be a unifying element among our divided nation of them and us, as opposed to someone who will be simply acceptable to both Joseph Muscat and Lawrence Gonzi. The suggestion that Giovanni Bonello is proposed by the LP simply provides further evidence of the long list of Sant preferences that Joseph does not have the strength to refuse,. Each one of those choices continue to further distance independent labourites, who have had more than enough of Sant, from the LP . Joseph has enough personalities of calibre he can resort to without having Sant''s own choices forced upon him as, seems to be the case of Giovanni Bonello, to many an evident sign of Sant continuiity. What about people like George Abela, Prof Edward Sciciuna, and others of their calibre?
Claudia Hili
Jan 4th 2009, 20:43
@Angelo Bonello
Joe Borg? With all due respect, what has he ever done to deserve the honour? His biggest plus is that he's a blue-eyed party man. As for Lino Spiteri, he just carries too much political baggage to be considered as a unifying personality. On the other hand Judge Giovanni Bonello's national and international stature dwarfs all the other mentioned candidates.
Conrad Thake
Jan 4th 2009, 20:21
@Angelo Micallef
What is plain ridiculous is the view that only seasoned former politicians are suitable for the post of president. They already dominate virtually every sphere of Maltese society. Judge Giovanni Bonello has all the qualities to be an excellent President!
Conrad Thake
Joseph Agius
Jan 4th 2009, 20:01
Angelo, you fail to see why Judge Giovanni Bonello is the right candidate cause you failed to do some homework and see what this person has done to our country and to our democracy.
joseph Cachia
Jan 4th 2009, 19:57
Was,nt Anthony Mamo high court Judge.
MALTA and the MALTESE deserve a PRESIDENT who is independent of any political party,
apply justice equal to anyone with no preferences.
The CONSTITUTION is there for all MALTESE protection, therefore if any clause embedded is
hindering the MALTESE frrom what they deserve, that clause should'nt be observed.
No matter what my P.M. think or wish,we MALTESE have a right to dictate what happens in our country and our life. The mentallity of following the day government directions is wrong and it is us MALTESE who must direct the governing body.
Dr G Bonello is perhaps the only person in MALTA who deserve to be TRUSTED to GUARD on OUR CONSTITUTION
albert spiteri
Jan 4th 2009, 19:53
Seems like in Malta only those political or judicial that get appreciated. There are so many other fields of human activity where people of dedication, talent, integrity and intelligence have won consensual respect and admiration for their selfless dedication to their cause. People like Dr. George Abela, Astride Vella, Anton Cassar, Dr. Abram Galea, George Agius, Alfred Palma, Achille Mizzi, George Peresso, Oliver Friggieri, Henry Frendo etc etc etc. The list goes on and on. I would most certainly consider all of these people extremely eligible and qualified for the appointment of Head of State.
J. Borg
Jan 4th 2009, 19:50
@ Angelo Micallef
Could you kindly illuminate us why Judge Bonello does 'not belong to the presidency', whereas Spiteri & Borg 'are ideal'
Possibly because they were involved in politics? Or becuase San Anton Palace is considered as the retirement home par excellance of politicians?
Sorry to disappoint you BUT most of us are calling for a President that unifies the country - i.e. no politicians pls!
Angelo Micallef
Jan 4th 2009, 19:22
I fail to see why Judge Giovanni Bonello and not some other judge for that matter!!! This suggestion is plain ridiculous!!! All respect to Judge Bonello but he does not belong in the Presidency....the likes of Lino Spiteri and Joe Borg are by far more ideal for the post then is Giovanni Bonello!
Lou Mizzi
Jan 4th 2009, 18:53
The eminent Judge Giovanni Bonello would be the ideal choice, acceptable to all.
Robert Schembri
Jan 4th 2009, 18:45
@Gianluca Barbieri
Of course Judge Giovanni Bonello is eligible for nomination. If not why would he be proposed by the Leader of the Opposition? And if he's not eligible because of some constitutional clause and both parties and most citizens are in favour of his nomination, it would only take a vote in Parliament to regularise matters. Go for it Dr Gonzi.
J. Mamo
Jan 4th 2009, 18:37
Yeah Eileen Montesin symbolises national unity !!!!
P.Scicluna
Jan 4th 2009, 18:30
@Barbieri
the constitutions refers for a Maltese sitting judge, Judge Bonello was never a judge of the Maltese courts. But still Gonzi will never approve him, because Dr Bonello was appointed as an international judge by Prime Minister Sant
Joseph Agius
Jan 4th 2009, 18:27
@james cassar
If it comes to that, i would prefer Ira Losco!!
james cassar
Jan 4th 2009, 17:18
How about Eileen Montesin?
lgalea
Jan 4th 2009, 16:33
Rosario Ellul
You are right.
Let's have a person who has never touched politics even with a barge pole.
The people are really fed up with our politicants (not politicians)., e.g. just to name two things salaries topped up with a Euro 290 per week increase, two thirds pension of the salaries current at the time while the rest of us children of a lesser God having our pension capped....
Gianluca Barbieri
Jan 4th 2009, 16:06
@E.Gatt..
Judges preside over superior courts.. magistrates preside over inferior courts. There's no judge that presides over inferior courts..
So Judge Bonello is definetely not eligible.. I'm sure the Prime Minister wnt go in the hurdle of obtaining the 2/3 majority to change the constitution at this stage.
Besides he's not even mentioned as a front runner let alone.
I think Lino Spiteri has gained the respect of both sides of the house. He's a very intelligent person and i think he would do us all proud.
Vincent Pace
Jan 4th 2009, 16:00
Judge Bonello would be perfect. Some are saying that we would be missing a ''first''lady as he is single. (Clever man !! :) ) Surely the post of President rises above all this, and the important thing is to unite the nation.
The Judge is probably the most respected candidate, both nationally and internationally, who we can appoint.
Louis Ellul
Jan 4th 2009, 15:58
@Angelo Micallef
"If I've ever heard a ridiculous suggestion then this one wins the cake!!! ....Its totally ridiculous to have a former judge as President..I disagree strongly with this proposal!!!
What's so ridiculous about having Judge Giovanni Bonello as Malta's next President? He's by far the best choice of all those mentioned.
J.Degiorgio
Jan 4th 2009, 14:49
I think one should seriously consider Mickey Mouse to run for president. He will be here in a few days time and one should not miss this occasion. At least he is loved by the majority of the population for sure. But seriously, I think he will not accept the nomination. Considering what's going on at the moment (the Nadur alleged rape case for example) he won't be proud of being Head of State of this country.
wally vella-zarb
Jan 4th 2009, 14:27
@ C.Galea
Unfortunately, the political scenario at that time required (unfairly, in my opinion) that 'Is-Sur Pawl' remained 'acting President'.
I still cherish a handwritten letter that he had sent to my late father soon after he assumed office, in which he showed appreciation for my father's congratulations and for the encouragement and assistance that he had given him to further his education when he was still a young clerk at the dockyard.
Angelo Micallef
Jan 4th 2009, 14:23
President Joe Borg:- Definitely a very valid option and a man I believe would do our country proud as head of state. He is experienced in international diplomacy and in local politics and I think he would make an excellent President.
President Louis Galea:- Personally I think Louis Galea still has much to contribute in politics and as such whilst I believe that eventually he does deserve the Presidency I think that for the moment he should be kept in a politically active role.
President Lino Spiteri:- Whilst I disagree with Lino Spiteri's socialist outlook on politics I think he is a man who has earned the respect of both sides of the political fence and whether you agree with him or not you have to admit that what he says and writes is indeed what he feels so I wouldn't at all mind to say President Lino!
President Giovanni Bonnello:- If I've ever heard a ridiculous suggestion then this one wins the cake!!! Nobody doubts the abilities of Judge Bonnello in the fields of law and justice but President Giovanni?? Its totally ridiculous to have a former judge as President..I disagree strongly with this proposal!!!
E Gatt
Jan 4th 2009, 14:16
@ Gianluca Barbieri
I stand to be corrected but Giovanni Bonello was not a judge of the superior courts in Malta.
It would indeed be a pity if he cannot be appointed.
c galea
Jan 4th 2009, 14:08
It is a pity that the Hon Mr Paul Xuereb is not mentioned in the list of Presidents of Malta, inthe attached list. He served our country with pride even in times of great division with honorable activities and contributions to the political picture.
wally vella-zarb
Jan 4th 2009, 13:58
@ Gianluca Barbieri
IF both sides agree that the appointment of Judge Giovanni Bonello would be the best choice for the position of President of the Republic, for ALL of the Maltese Nation, then an amendment that would remove the restriction in the Constitution would be a mere technicality, easily passed with the required two thirds, possibly even 'nem con'.
Having them agree NOT to appoint a political person is, of course, the major hurdle.
Gianluca Barbieri
Jan 4th 2009, 13:39
@everyone..
read the constitution of malta:
A person shall not be qualified to be appointed to the office
of President if -
(a) he is not a citizen of Malta; or
(b) he holds or has held the office of Chief Justice or other
Judge of the Superior Courts; or
(c) he is not eligible for appointment to or to act in any
public office in accordance with articles 109, 118 and
120 of this Constitution.
so judge bonello is not eligible.
i think lino spiteri is the best candidate.
Brian Maloret
Jan 4th 2009, 13:35
Looking at the list of past Presidents why wasn't the post filled for the two years after Agatha Barbara stepped down in 1987 and until Censu Tabone was appointed in 1989? Is it a misprint or am I missing something. I also agree with those who would like to see a non political figure as the new President.
P.Scicluna
Jan 4th 2009, 12:47
It about time that we will have a Presidentof the Republic clean from politics. Its about time that we will be treated decent. We had enough of political presidents who as soon as taking office they became PRESIDENTS OF ALL MALTESE.
Mr Prim Minister we need a break from politics. We need a break each time we see the president on the media, I think Judge Bonello deserves this job. He is a inteligent, cultured and respected man. But............................obviously the Prime Minister has his own man,OBLIGATIONS. As usual he will not take notice of our cry.
vincent magro
Jan 4th 2009, 12:40
Jiena nemmen fermament li il-post ta president ghandu jimtela mis-sur Lino Spiteri, li gharaf jimxi u kien koerenti mat-twemmin tieghu, kemm mal-partit oppost u kemm mal-partit li kien jaghmel parti minnu. Ma bezax li jitlef postu fil-kabinett u kien konsistenti fit-tajjeb.
Noel Cutajar
Jan 4th 2009, 12:34
If we have Judge Bonnello as President, we are sure that our human rights will not be crampled upon...ask the Roma people about it.
E Gatt
Jan 4th 2009, 12:24
I am sure that many fellow Nationalists would be happy with Judge Giovanni Bonello as the next president of the Republic. He is cultured, learned and an expert at constitutional law and human rights.
wally vella-zarb
Jan 4th 2009, 12:15
Dr Louis Galea, although eminently suitable, has far too much political baggage to be a unifying President of the Republic. Dr Borg does not seem to have a strong enough personality: he is too much of a 'bahbuh'. Lino Spiteri? Now who, in his right senses would want a Machiavelli who balances the chip on his shoulder with cultivated arrogance on the other?
No, the only suitable person out of those who have been named would be Judge Giovanni Bonello - assuming, of course, that this true gentleman is magnanimous enough to accept the nomination and to do us the honour of being our President, for once, a President who is truly 'a President for ALL of the Maltese Nation.
ANDREW HARDING
Jan 4th 2009, 11:54
How about the legendary Dom Mintoff as President ?, there would most certainly be never a dull moment with this fine old gentleman in position.
J. Borg
Jan 4th 2009, 11:41
Oh our dear old faithful politicians, who are so altruistic that they embrace politics as a personal sacrifice, to seek to serve us.
I wonder how San Gorg Preca has managed to pip them to sainthood!
A president who has never held a parliamentary seat.....seem only Father Xmas might help.
We should thank our lucky starts that the Archbishop (till now) is not elected from ex-members of parliament!
Charles Said-vassallo
Jan 4th 2009, 11:29
I have to agree that Judge Bonello would make a perfect choice as the next President of Malta. A man who succeeded in every avenue in his career.
Joseph Agius
Jan 4th 2009, 11:28
Hey people, I got a bright idea.....how about Prof Edward de Bono?...now that was creative wasn't it!
Charles Sammut
Jan 4th 2009, 11:12
Once more Malta's politicians display an arrogant, contemptious atittude to the people's wishes and aspirations.
Charles Micallef
Jan 4th 2009, 11:09
It is high time that the new President, should not have any political affiliation whatsoever,
just for a refreshing change!
Joanne Micallef
Jan 4th 2009, 11:03
Personally I don’t visualize any of the 3 mentioned as our President. Why does it have to be someone from politics anyway, especially in this day and age when most of the Maltese have lost faith in our politicians a person from outside the political sphere is more likely to instill national unity
Gusman Louise
Jan 4th 2009, 10:43
I would prefer to have a woman as President, I think it is high time we make some changes. Women supporters where are you ....
Noel Cutajar
Jan 4th 2009, 10:14
Quite obvious who the next President will be!! it would be a PL candidate...a joke.
Rosario Ellul
Jan 4th 2009, 10:00
It would be unforgivable, even puerile, if the Government makes another political appointment for the presidency. none of those mentioned - Joe Borg, Louis Galea or Lino Spiteri - instil a spirit of national unity and will get the support of both sides of the house as Sir Anthony Mamo did back in 1974. One candidate that deserves the highest accolade of the land, who will be acceptable to all and whose wisdom and geniality is just what this country needs is Judge Giovanni Bonello. Surely nobody can argue with that.
victor vella
Jan 4th 2009, 09:56
While saluting all the previous presidents and thanking them all for thier work which I believe they all carried out to the letter especially Dr Ugo Mifsud Bonnici who had the most difficult task during his presidency, I look forward to seeing iether Mr Lino Spiteri or Dr Louis Galea as president.I think it is hard to choose between the two of them.
Byron Camilleri
Jan 4th 2009, 09:50
Well Judge Giovanni Bonello is a very good choice indeed...
Joseph Agius
Jan 4th 2009, 09:48
I think the best choice would be Judge Giovanni Bonello.
John Spiteri
Jan 4th 2009, 09:46
still looks like a job for the boys. worse it looks like some kind of compensation for 'services rendered' - the presidency deserves better.