Lija mayor vying for PN's president post

Lija mayor Ian Castaldi Paris is vying for the post of Nationalist Party president, which was vacated by Victor Scerri after he became embroiled in a controversy over a development in Baħrija.

The 31-year-old notary confirmed he had put his hat into the ring. He is the only candidate to put his name forward so far. Nominations close on Friday and the election will be held on November 13.

Sources said Dr Castaldi Paris has the backing of the PN's hierarchy, including Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and general secretary Paul Borg Olivier.

Dr Castaldi Paris entered the political scene four years ago when he contested the local council election in Lija, gaining the largest number of votes and securing the post of mayor.

He embarked on several projects and opposed a controversial development in his village. He was re-confirmed as mayor earlier this year.

Dr Castaldi Paris is president of the PN College of Councillors and chairman of the board of the Majjistral Park. He said he wanted to dedicate all his energy to the party and use the post to be closer to the party grassroots.

"It is a prestigious position within the party that will help me reach out and remain close to the party grassroots.

"I was approached by many people who urged me to contest when the post became vacant. I didn't have to think about it for too long, and after consulting with my family took the decision to go for it," he said when contacted yesterday.

Dr Castaldi Paris said he did not rule out relinquishing the post of mayor once he completed his plans for the tranquil village. "We solved a number of problems in Lija and now I want to try solve the traffic problem too. Once I do that, I think I would have achieved what I set out to do and it would be time for me to leave space for fresh blood within the council," he said.

Although Lija residents hold him in high esteem, the mayor's home was targeted by an arsonist last April.

mxuereb@timesofmalta.com