MPs represent the people - Franco Debono

Paul Caruana

Jan 18th 2010, 18:06

You've got to hand it to Dr Debono, apparently a rare commodity in parlament these days - which is odd, considering that it's a male dominated institution!

rodnick abdilla

Jan 11th 2010, 17:28

We need action now Franco debono not only words

Jon Agius

Jan 5th 2010, 12:48

For me Franco Debono is a man of principles. MP's are represented by the people. Franco Debono is a fresh face in politics and this is what the country needs. I've never heard of him before. Today's politics is all about the leader of the political party, GonziPn and JosephPL. It's all about marketing the party and smiling faces and dress codes. Don't abuse democracy! POWER TO THE PEOPLE!!

Adrian Archer

Jan 5th 2010, 11:40

Principle is just an idea....so is democracy. Ideas are only electrical signals inside the brain that if they stay there, they will only be shadows. Yet when people stick to that idea with all theirs strength of mind, then the ideas become something more.

Both parties have good ideals that in the recent history (and far back) it has showed that these ideals where put aside for political advancement and personal gain. Whether Mr Debono has some personal agenda I don't know...but it seems to me that by sticking to what he did, he is the one who has most to lose. If we follow Dr Dupuis' theory the people lose and the ideas we so much love float away with the wind of autocratism.

In the US letter of independence it says that if the people feel that the government is going against the people, it not only should go against the government but it has the DUTY to do so. Unfortunately we (& even the US) don't stick to that much.

Fenech M D

Dec 30th 2009, 21:13

@ E Vassallo

Le habib, taht il-PN trid tghid dak li jridu tal-qalba ghax inkella int kontra. Hemm klikka li qed tikkontrolla kollox akkost li ma titlifx il-poter. Jekk ma tafx b'din ftit int midhla tal-politika!

Bhal Franco hemm ohrajn, li ghax urew li ma jaqblux mal-partit spiccaw fuq Bondi+ ghax dawn l-affarijiet FTIT naraw bhalhom!

Jekk jispicca jkollna nies bhal Franco fil-Parlament, nispiccaw bi gvern bhal ma kien l-MLP fit-80s. Franco huwa n-nifs gdid li ghandu bzonn il-partit jekk irid jiggedded (kif kien dejjem jaghmel qabel l-ahhar elezzjon), jekk jinhonoq dan-nifs u dal-lehen, il-PN ikun beda t-triq ghall-aghar telfa elettorali li qatt garrab.

Ma ndeffsux rasna fir-ramel; nisimghu il-karba tal-poplu.

kenneth spiteri

Dec 30th 2009, 20:04

A slight correction Johan ferriggi ...you forget to mention that he beat them all..... And by the way I didn't vote for him last time I will next time...

johann ferriggi

Dec 30th 2009, 19:53

@E.VASSALLO louis galea ta kontribut kbir anke meta kien ministru ta l awziljari u tal-fondazzjoni ta l-iskejjel t ghada,u anke fl -agrikoltura. rigward l -artiklu li semmejt sur Vassallo ara jirnexxilekx issib fejn li P.N japprova l-kandidati ghall -elezzjoni generali 3 snin u nofs qabel l-elezzjoni.Din qatt ma saret fil -partit u allura dan li qed issemmi int [is a non issue]. Fi zmien Louis galea u siehbu tal qalb Bonello di pius il kandidati ta l-elezzjoni generali kienu jispiccaw il kandidati kif appena tghaddi l-elezzjoni. Ahseb u ara kemm kienu japprovaw il-kandidati 3 snin u nofs qabel l-elezzjoni!!! u hallina!!!! Min kellu tant hegga biex johrog fuq il-5 distrett messu hareg fl-elezzjoni li ghaddiet kif ghamel FRANCO DEBONO u kkompeta ma ninu zammit louis galea u helen d'amato

kenneth spiteri

Dec 30th 2009, 19:02

Thanks to Fenech MD now we all know why De Puis attacked Dr. Debono, after all the latter has beaten his old friend and preferably candidate for the PN top post.... Yet despite Eddie Fenech Adami’s anointment of Lawrence Gonzi as his successor, Bonello Dupuis’s choice of candidate to succeed Fenech Adami would have been Louis Galea. “He was my preferred candidate. I have known him since he was very young. Unlike Gonzi he was one of us. Gonzi was a Johnny-come-lately. He did not cut his teeth in iron as we did in the 1980s. Between us (Dupuis and Galea) there was a certain camaderie which can never be cancelled.” He recalls Louis Galea as the “motivator of the party. He used to make things move.

E. Vassallo

Dec 30th 2009, 18:45

@M.D. Fenech Tibza titkellem IL-PN ghandu problema li kulhadd jghid li jrid ( u jaqbillu f'certi kazi). Anzi tara kemm ikun hemm deputati jiktbu u jikkritikaw lill-PN fuq il-gazzetti. Ezempju li jien naqbel mieghu huwa ta' Jean Pierre Farrugia. Naqbel ma dan id-deputat 100 fil-mija fil-kritika tieghu. Louis Galea ghamel u nieda policies kbar ta' fejda kemm f'Social Policy u Edukazzjoni f'dan il-pajjizz. Jekk hu veru li gie rrapurtat f'l artiklu hawn taht...ma nafx jien.... http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/2009/12/23/t4.html

J Brincat

Dec 30th 2009, 17:05

Dr Franco Deboni is truly a man of homour.

Dr Bonello Dupius's era is now well over and he should continue to enjoy his pension in his ripe old age.

robert micallef

Dec 30th 2009, 16:35

so finally we get an MP who has the guts to stand up and be counted............pity there is only 1 with some character.
if the pn think his career is over it only proves how much they have lost contact with the people.
you get my vote next time round even if had never heard of you Franco

kenneth spiteri

Dec 30th 2009, 16:13

To George Bonello D Puis! The old way of doing politics is history, the new way of doing politics is no party is greater then the people….

Joe Genovese

Dec 30th 2009, 15:34

A young Tory MP, attending his first sitting, found himself next to an inveterate old buffer, an old hand who knew all the ropes and the ropes he didn't know weren't worth knowing.

" How does it feel?", asked Methuselah.

Cocking his head over the aisle to the Labour members, the new arrival said: "With all those enemies over there, how do you think I feel?"

"Enemies? They're not your enemies. They're your opponents. If ever you have enemies here, it will be on this side of the House."

Fenech M D

Dec 30th 2009, 13:49

George Bonello Dupuis qed juza' din is-sitwazzjoni biex jiskredita lil Franco Debono. Kulhadd jaf li hemm hbiberija kbira bejn GBD u Louis Galea.

'Yet despite Eddie Fenech Adami’s anointment of Lawrence Gonzi as his successor, Bonello Dupuis’s choice of candidate to succeed Fenech Adami would have been Louis Galea.'

http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/2007/05/13/interview.html

Issa kulhadd jaf li Dr Franco Debono tela' u qala' lil Louis Galea fl-ahhar elezzjoni. Tal-misthija kif GBD sab ix-xoqta f'moxtha biex ipattiha lil Dr Debono.

Dr Debono, sajjied tajjeb tagharfu meta jinqabad fil-maltemp u jzomm sod. Qed turi li int ragel ta principju u leali lejn in-nies li tellghuk GHAX TAF LI HAWN MIN QED IBATI.

Jien wiehed minn dawk li qlibt minn twemmin Nazzjonalista ghal wiehed Laburista ghax qed nara li taht it-tmexxija ta' Gonzi, l-PN tilef il-principji kollha tieghu; m'ghadux il-partit li ghaqqad Dr Fenech Adami. Il-partit qed jinqasam u biex jitnaddaf hekk irid, nies bhalek biex nergghu fit-triq tad-djalogu, tax-xoghol, tal-liberta (tal-espressjoni). Kien il-PN li harigna minn taht ir-regim ta' Mintoff meta kont tibza' titkellem (fl-80's). Ghaliex ghandu jkun il-Leader tal-PN li jerga' jitfana f'dawk iz-zminijiet tant koroh?

Is-sewwa jirbah zgur!

kenneth spiteri

Dec 30th 2009, 12:15

In pain I must admit that the PN is out of touch is loosing its credibility that has build up through many difficult years, I now there is more then Franco who wanted to abstain that’s for sure because if its only Franco then the PN is really, really in deep cold waters.

A kindly suggestion to our (was loved) Prime Minister do not treat with treat but instead be a leader, be courage, and were you think you have mistaken, repair it, that what’s distinguish a leader from another after all we are not robots but human beings. Be a leader!

Nationalist.

kenneth spiteri

Dec 30th 2009, 12:14

We are talking about the courage of Dr. Debono were there are mixed opinion as it should be in a democracy (if exists)

I am fed up with the PN always trying to mislead on every argument by trying to bring out the 70’s and 80’s, Hence I fully believe that we can forgive but never forget.

Back to Dr.Debono, in the last General election I voted Louis Galea in the EP I voted PN but I was really considering for the first time not voting PN in next general election however I must say that Dr. Debono saved the PN for loosing 6 more votes. Well done Franco keep up the good work

Mike Magri

Dec 30th 2009, 10:17

@..J Martinelli... You goofed-up again in trying to comment on my contribution of 1 day 17 hrs ago.. On the case of `Borrowing`, you seemed to have Unnoticed, Unread or Intentionaly Missed Out on the word "UnSustainable". Which in simple language means that ALL the projects, infrastructural or otherwise that ALL PN Governments managed to finish in ALL these 20 years of their Regime, ALL of them ended up being Exageratedly Costlier than their tender value. Meaning that these governments spent huge ammounts of tax payers money and getting back a much much lesser value of the monies spent. Thus the million dollar question always remains... WERE DID ALL THESE DIFFERENCES IN PAYMENTS GO..!!??!!?? I am more than sure that we may ALL get a `hunch` to the answer of this question by refering to the latest SHAMEFUL Report of the Transparency International CORRUPTION PERCEPTION Index..

Heq.. Il-Malti Jghid... IL-QASBA MA CCAQCAQX GHALXEJN... MHUX HEKK Sur Martinelli...!!!

No Wonder that we have such ASTRONOMICAL, UNCONTROLABLE and UNSUSTAINABLE Ever Growing Annual Depts and Deficits...!!!

And by the way.. Thanks.. I Know That `I Am So Right`. I don`t need you to tell me so anyway..!!

Jesmond Abela

Dec 30th 2009, 09:58

hehehe...........That's a good one Mr Micallef.

Joe Micallef

Dec 30th 2009, 09:19

@ Paul Portelli

Stay at home, if you need an appliance by a second hand from a flea market, to save on water and electricity use them on alternative days, do not buy a computer, do not buy a mobile, do not improve your home, do not travel, make your own chocolate and toothpaste, trade in food coupons, do not use cable TV, if you need a study room convert a corner of the wash room, if you need to plaster your walls use mixture half lime and half dirt and prostitute yourself with amongst the worst people in human history and you'll make bucket loads…..eh and buy the way do not let you neighbour suggest otherwise….if he insists beat the hell out of him!

victor zarb

Dec 30th 2009, 00:54

Sur Vassallo,jien naqbel mieghek perfettament li l pn ghandu bzonn jitnaddaf,pero ma nahsibx li Franco Debono huwa egocentriku,anzi, jien nahseb li bhala nazzjonalist ghandek tammira l mod li qed juri id dizapprovazzjoni tieghu,wara kollox dan qed jaghmlu bi dritt f pajjiz suppost demokratiku u ghalhekk ma hemm xejn hazin.Tahsibx li qed nghid hekk ghax jien laburist u qed napprofitta ruhi,anzi l boghod minn hekk.Ostakoli bhal dawn sur vassallo ha tistennihom fix xena politika,wara li partit ikun ilu fil gvern u jkun qed jitlef il kredibilita.Jekk rajt x kiteb GBD fuq Franco Debono tinduna kemm hemm fidi fjakka fid demokrazija fl imhuh ta certu nies fil pn,hekk jonqos,dejjem jigi l partit l ewwel! U min jahdem fi hdan il partit,allura,pupazz? Anqas li qieghdin fir regim ta Castro!

R.Lapira

Dec 30th 2009, 00:07

@ Paul Portelli ,Kieku ma kienx hemm bidla 1987. Illum ma hawnx problema ta`l-immigrazzjoni ghax l-konfini ta l-Afrika kienu jaslu sa nofs il-Meditteran.

Is-Sena t-tajba lill-poplu Malti kollu.

Edric Micallef Figallo

Dec 29th 2009, 20:29

Hon. Franco Debono is not stupid, he knew what he would be facing. What is refreshing is his sense of the State and politics. Frankly, he is the youngest MP in parliament and what he has stated should be a must for all those involved in politics. It is with thoughts like this that we can get a much needed new political vision inspired by civic virtues and a newer sense of our Republic. Old modes of political operation are not apt these days and even less so in the future. If the Partit Nazzjonalista would in any way attempt to harm the electoral prospects of this man, it would be a shame. I'm sure Hon. Franco Debono would never want in any way to favour Labourite prospects. He probably loves the party and sees it as a means to the Nation's good, the end. Others see the party as an end in itself and this is not something which should be subscribed by anyone. A party is a means and its potential electoral victories are means as well, not ends. Let us not forget the proper ends of any sound political activity.

paul portelli

Dec 29th 2009, 19:32

@mary ann borg mary ann dak li kontu tajru zero halla fil kaxxa ta malta lm 500 miljun lira li fl-ewwel 4 snin taht il pn barbaqom mill-ewwel.

johann ferriggi

Dec 29th 2009, 17:59

FRANCO DEBONO comes from a [familja tal - haddiem]from the labour stronghold of ghaxaq .He has shown very strong principles and political convictions .Franco debono is a self made,brilliant criminal trial lawyer,who has built his law firm from nothing. FRANCO DEBONO is a leader.

Joe Micallef

Dec 29th 2009, 16:38

@ Galea L

Meta bi hsibek tohrog il verzjoni mghawwga tieghek ta l-istorja ta' Malta bhala kiteb. L immaginazjoni fertili tieghek zgur igieghel lil nies bhal Rowling jisthu!

G.Portelli

Dec 29th 2009, 14:39

Bla dejn veru imma konnha 50 sena lura u t-taxxi kienu 65%!!! Ahhh.

Miriam Webster

Dec 29th 2009, 14:04

As an elected representative of the people:
1) You are an asset to your constituents and that is both commendable and rare, but
2) You have been declared a liability by the political party you have affiliated yourself with.

May the intelligence and open-mindedness you have demonstrated in 1) above, guide you when the full force of 2) comes down to bear on you.

Michael John Turner: Answers to your questions:

1) Is Malta really so far behind in the democratic process?
Yes
2) or are we witnessing the last flourishes of a few vociferous political dinosaurs?
I hope so, but probably not.
3) I wonder what the average age of the commentators is?
Older than you think, but probably irrelevant, as political affiliation is something that is literally handed down from generation to generation.

Just for giggles and armed with this insight, go back and re-read my comments and see if you can pick up the subtle inference.

A.Gauci Cunningham

Dec 29th 2009, 12:28

Whether the topic is Franco debono, budget, projects, the Power station mess, broken promises, deficit or Joseph Muscat two regular commentators on the times.com always seem to want to throw the 80's red herring to deflect attention from the real issue at hand. Ok Ok you say you suffered and that (according to you) we couldn't have had it worse but please get over it now! If you cant come up with a sensible argument in favour or against the issue here ,which is Franco Debono and the way he is tackling the fact that the PN is ignoring its own MPs, than I suggest you make yourself a cuppa and give us all a break from the constant "ghax fit-tmenijat.....u ghax fis-sittinijiet...u ghax Mintoff.....u ghax l-Isqof...u ghax karmenu...u ghax harqu...u il-bombi" Believe me you're not doing your party one iota of good!!Only the blindfolded, time warped 'janisseries' vote today according to what happened 30 years ago!

E. Vassallo

Dec 29th 2009, 12:24

@Vicrtor Zarb

Forsi qed tiftakar kif il-labour tela f'1996 b'6,000 vot bis-sahha tas-salvatur Duminku Mintoff. Jien naf hafna nies li vvutaw lill Franco fosthom qarib tieghi li d-darba li gejja zgur mhux se jinzel fil-polza tal-vot taghhom. Nippreferi li jkun hawn elezzjoni bikrija u l-PN jitnaddaf milli nkomplu bil-mutetti ta' xi deputati li jkun egocentrici.

@Joseph Quintano

I agree when such actions are done on principle. I very much doubt it Franco's actions were as such..

kenneth spiteri

Dec 29th 2009, 12:09

@ Mr. Zammit , Dr. Debono does not fear anyone in his district, first he has beaten on let’s say equal terms the likes of Louis Galea, Ninu Zammit, Helen D’Amato etc… and without his stronghold Ghaxaq that was mixed up as perfectly you have said.

But to conclude the most that astonished me in this country is that finally we have a courage MP that has openly speaks out because he believe in giving a service not like Dr Bonello Dupuis said recently when he mentioned carrier so all MP say it are you in politics for carrier or to serve?

Some of us want Parrots MP’s; sorry I want Spartans not Parrots. THANKS.

kenneth spiteri

Dec 29th 2009, 12:08

All I have to say to this nonsense is

First I congratulate Dr Debono for his courage; this crazy little island dominated by the few needs an urgent change.

Secondly some bloggers here talked about party vision and values please explain with concrete facts because I’m lost here, we talk a lot but we forget about them due course (especially values) a good example the exaggerated high tariffs of water and electricity, we are paying for totally mismanagement, one question to GONZI, were are the values the PN preached every time the elections are at our door steps, that strange enough I always voted for.

Having said that I feel we need more politicians like Dr Debono and whatever Dr Bonello Dupuis say I feel that we elect MP’s to represent our voice, after all party ticket or not without people vote there is no MP’s elected so please stop this nonsense once and for all, after all Gonzi himself before the election said you decide with your vote whom to elect (to then be ministers) we trust him but he betrayed us because what we voted for is not represented in our Cabinet of Ministers

Galea. L

Dec 29th 2009, 11:32

Mary Ann Borg
Runway gdida li qed isibha wkoll il-Gvern Nazzjonalista.
L-AirMalta qatt ma kienet titlef taht Gvern Laburista. Bdiet titlef taht Gvern Nazzjonalista.
SeaMalta zarmawha biex jaghtu xogholha lill-hbieb tal-PN.
EneMalta qatt ma ghamlet tlef taht il-Gvern Laburista. Bdiet titlef taht Gvern Nazzjonalista.
Servizzi socjali minn Borg Olivier? Insejt li l-MPs Nazzjonalisti kienu vvutaw kontra l-pensjoni ghax qalu li x-xjuh jixorbuha inbid?
Tiftakar il-hrug tal-kaziniLaburisti Mary Ann?
Tiftakar kemm kien ikun hemm sinjal ahmar hdejn l-ismijiet tal-Laburisti biex ma jinghatawx xoghol u jiittxu jparpruhom lejn l-Awstralja?
Tiftakar lill-Eddie Fenech Adami jghid li dawk ghamlu hekk ghax kienu ewforici meta kissru u hargu kemm Alla halaq kazini tal-Labour u attakkaw ukoll lil Tarcisio Mifsud?
Tidtafar lill-Eddie jghid li se jghidilna min kien qatel lil Karen Grech u lil Raymond Caruana Alla jahfrilhom it-tnejn?
Tiftakar li Eddie ta' promozzjoni lil dawkl-ufficjali tal-pulizija li tant kien jattakka meta kien hemm Gvern Laburista u jakkuzahom bi vjolenza kontra n-Nazzjonalista?
Tiftakar meta l-ballavostri waqghu wehidhom gewwa Haz-Zebbug?
Tiftakar kemm MPs Nazzjonaisti kienu jsiefru jheggu li ma jigix investiment f'Malta u min kellu investiment ghandu jirtirah?
Din hija bissparti zghira mill-hdura kbira tal-Partit NAzzjonalista u l-mexxejja tieghu kontra l-haddiema u Malta MaryAnn.

Jeremy J Camilleri

Dec 29th 2009, 11:27

Hehe...How tribal....look at the comments posted below....Thy dont have ANYTHING to do with the article in question! weird!

They ll be talking about offsides and missed penalty kicks next!

Jesmond Abela

Dec 29th 2009, 09:57

@Mr Paul Portelli

So What .....u Kollox Bla Dejn vera !!!!! pero trid izid ukoll li kollox second hand kellna u b'kemm niddubaw ( Kliem il prim ta dak iz zmien) Jekk trid tkun ragel onest Mr Portelli trid tghid li stat li kienet Malta ukoll. Bla Dawl , Bla Ilma , Sistema ta Telefon tal genn , Ajruport tal misthija , biex tixtrli television tal Kulur trid thallas , biex tidhol Universita trid il parrinu , biex nixtru naqa ghagin u cikkulata trid tmur Sqallija u elf haga ohra. Mr Paul inutli ikollok il flus u ma tgawdihomx u titqammel ma nisek stess ghax fl ahhar mil lahhar tigi imwarab min nisek stess!!!! U hekk gralu il LEJBER twarrab mil poplu Malti ghal 25 sena shah.

IS SENA TAJBA LIL KULHADD !!

Mary Ann Borg

Dec 29th 2009, 09:49

@paul portelli:

sur martinelli ,gvernijiet laburisti ghamlu:

runway - ghax qalu li gejjin hafna jumbos u flok jumbos gew hijacks
air malta - dockyard ohra li titlef sena wara ohra
sea malta -zarmat
enemalta - monstru li holoq kull kompetizjoni u issa irridu nitqannew biha
servizzi sociali - min holoq il-pensjonijiet? Gorg Borg Olivier
u mitejn haga ohra - tkissir u hruq ta' kazini, nies jisparixxu mid-depot, qtil ta' Raymond Caruana, dimostrazzonijiet sfrattati, zwieten jaghmlu li jridu, sparar fil-parlament, skejjel ta' Karmenu, hruq tat-Times (u issa qed tisserva biha int stess), telefons ma jahdmux, ilma bis-sadid u MILJUN haga ohra.

u kollox BLA DEJN ANZI LAHHAR GVERN LBURISTA HALLA FIL- KAXXA TA MALTA LM500 MILJUN LIRA IMFADLIN - tista tghidilna minn fejn gibta dil-figura?

paul portelli

Dec 29th 2009, 09:26

@mr martinelli

sur martinelli ,gvernijiet laburisti ghamlu:

runway
air malta
sea malta
enemalta
servizzi sociali
u mitejn haga ohra
u kollox BLA DEJN ANZI LAHHAR GVERN LBURISTA HALLA FIL- KAXXA TA MALTA LM500 MILJUN LIRA IMFADLIN

MIN GHANDU AJNEJH HA JAQRA U JITALLEM

Darren Bugeja

Dec 29th 2009, 09:20

Proset Franco. Irridu aktar nies bhalek, li l-ewwel interess tigi Malta u l-Maltin, mhux il partit u l-but taghhom. Kuragg kompli sejjer fid direzzjoni t-tajba li qbadt.

Jeremy J Camilleri

Dec 29th 2009, 09:15

Dear Mr Martinelli, ..Do the Canadians believe Dr Gonzi and David AGius when they said that there was never any problem with Dr Debono, and that this story was just fabricated by Labour?

TONY C. CUTAJAR

Dec 29th 2009, 07:43

Franc Debono admitted at the end that he was proud to be part of the PN and that he expected to see TEAM SPIRIT. He's not showing much of that team spirit. All I can say is that he seems to be enjoying all the propaganda and self-inflation. Give us a break.

Joe Fenech

Dec 29th 2009, 01:39

Franco, keep it up. Had their been more courageous people in the PN and PL, they would be attracting more voters. Ignore those people who have made it just because they were part of the 'hama tal-partit'.

Lydia Pace Workman

Dec 29th 2009, 00:37

After reading tens of comments, I concurr with Albert Leone Ganado who said it all competently and realistically in only four paragraphs. It is not just a question of solidarity Dr. Debono, Unfortunately, you are a patsy for the behind the scene people who would disown you in a heartbeat when the appropriate moment should present itself!

Stephen Farrugia- Sliema

Dec 29th 2009, 00:17

When reading these posts, one can only be worried with their backwardness of thought. Yes, some more then others but really, bad as a whole.

I still agree with Dr Franco Debono and understand his position.

victor zarb

Dec 28th 2009, 23:53

Sur E.Vassallo nahseb ghandek zball kbir siehbi ta! Mhux Franco tela bis sahha tal p.n.,imma l p.n. tela mkaxkar b maggoranza ta banketta bis sahha ta Franco ta hi forsi jekk ma ndunajtx........................................

TG CURMI

Dec 28th 2009, 23:33

@ AE Abela, D Mangion

It is certainly true that the dictates of one's conscience should come before anything else. However, in the case in point, the MP did not walk out because he did not agree with the issue being voted upon (as in the case of abortion mentioned by D Mangion, where I would agree fully.) He simply wanted to use the situation to 'make a point', because he thinks that he represents only his constituents and, ultimately, himself. As many have pointed out, this would only be the case if he had been an independent candidate. To be elected on a party ticket and use a one-seat majority to further your own aims is unfair and childish.

Mario Cachia

Dec 28th 2009, 23:26

Dear Franco Debono,
If only all politiciancs (from both party) had half your honesty and loyalty to the people and to the country, Sir Moore's Utopia would be the result. Keep on the good work, and as always practice your beliefs.

joseph quintano

Dec 28th 2009, 23:12

Franco, continue to make your point. Malta and especially the PN need a good shake up. Prove to us all that your are not a puppet on a string as are many other politicians, We need this kind of politics for the good of our beloved country.

fred mallia

Dec 28th 2009, 22:35

to gdemartino'

lill Karen Grech insejta, sinjur u l-bombi li kienu jfaqqu mal-faccati ta' min kien jahdem f'karigi mal-gvern laburista????????

fred mallia

Dec 28th 2009, 22:23

to george the exminister of national debts. the debts will be paid back by our children, our grand children and our grand grand children.... and our grand.....

prosit george et pn

J Martinelli

Dec 28th 2009, 21:40

@ Mike Magri

You are so right!
".. ahna ma niddejqux niddejnu, ghax id-dejn ihallsuh uliedna u wlied uliedna.." AND that`s EXACTLY what THEY have been doing for the last Two Decades"

Have you forgotten that Dr.GBD reduced Income Tax from a ceiling of 65% in Mintoff's time to 35% when he became Finance Minister?

Just imagine had the Nationalist governments decided not to borrow money:

No airport
No water in your taps
No power station - back to candles and lampi tal-pitrolju
Two year wait for a telephone party-line connection
No colour television sets
Bulk buying (a la Santa Marija Convoy) - when and if the goods arrive.....and the list is endless!

Those alone are enough reasons why Dr.Debono should think first before he acts up unless he wants to throw us back to the 70s and 80s. No thanks!

He is only succeeding in letting the Labour Party rub their filthy hands in glee! Surely he is not amusing the true Nationalists who fought political battles and who succeeded in restoring democratic values in Malta, membership in the EU, eurozone and other achievements including the highest number of employed ever.

MARIO SALNITRO

Dec 28th 2009, 21:27

WELL SAID DR.F.DEBONO YOU ARE AN EXAMPLE TO ALL NATIONALIST.

NO ONE SHOULD BE IGNORED, WELL DONE BRAVO.

Marcel Dingli

Dec 28th 2009, 21:22

Qatt ma kont nimmagina li Malta ssir pajjiz totalitarju komunist. Kemm hawn min qed ipoggi l interessi ta partit qabel dawk tac cittadin ! Huwa taht il komunizmu fejn il bniedem isir zero minghir identita u inizjattiva.

Jeremy J Camilleri

Dec 28th 2009, 20:51

Sur Demartino..DO you still believe Dr Gonzi and David AGius when they said that there was never any problem with Dr Debono, and that this story was just fabricated by Labour?

Alfred Camilleri

Dec 28th 2009, 20:49

It seems that most of those approving Franco Debono's antics belong to the 'Lil' Elves' brigade of the PL. Wonder why? No, it couldn't possiblly be. It's not because they are desperate and hungry for their Party to gain power. I suppose that back in the ninetees they all, to a man, approved and supported Mintoff for his betrayal of Labour voters, for which he earned the label of traitor by no less than the then Labour leader and Prime Minister.

Ray Spiteri, please stop insulting our intelligence with your comments.

C.camilleri

Dec 28th 2009, 20:34

@ Demartino,

You never fail to amaze me. Besides being permanently stuck with the past, with very narrow minded arguments, of all days you chose today for your routine rhetoric about incidents which happened in the past.

Just for your information Mr.Demartino today 32 years ago Karen Grech was killed by parcel bomb. For those who do not remember the murder happened during the doctors strike. Her father return to Malta to help cure patients during the strike.
People in glass houses...........................

Meditate gente meditate.

Ronnie Agius

Dec 28th 2009, 20:34

@Giovanni De Martino
Ghas-sur Giovanni De Martino qisu l-istorja bdiet mit-tmeninijiet,imma possibli insejt is-sittinijiet taht gvern tal-P.N.?.Il-gazzetta il-helsien ma tistax tidhol fl-isptarijiet tal-gvern,tigi delegazjoni tas-socjalisti u jisparaw fuqom,Pulizija ta De Gray isawwtu il-laburisti ghal kull haga ta' xejn,fil-meetings laburisti dejjem in-nies jigu intimidati u il-pulizija ma taghmel xejn,
tghaddi ligi taht gvern tal-P.N. li kull min jistrajkja jehel il-habs,
Pero il-Partit Laburista konxju li saru zbalji fi zmien Gvernijiet Laburisti imma Il-mexxej Dr.Joseph Muscat kien umli u ghamel apologija sinciera.
Taf x'insejt issemmi Sur De Martino li fi zmien il-Labour kienet inqatlet Karin Grech b'ittra bomba ghax sempliciment missiera dahal jezercita il-profesjoni biex jaqdi il-poplu u it-tixwix li kien isir barra biex il-gid ma jitkattarx.

Marco Brincat

Dec 28th 2009, 20:33

Political parties should NOT just accept anyone. They have to be sure that the candidate shares the party's views and values. If the candidate is elected he has to serve the party.
After all the people vote for the party.

IN THE MAJORITY OF THE CASES:

In the GENERAL ELECTION YOU VOTE NUMBER 1 FOR THE PARTY - AS THE GOVERNANCE OF THE COUNTRY IS AT STAKE!!!

In the COUNCIL ELECTION YOU VOTE FOR THE MOST TRUSTED CANDIDATE IRRESPECTIVE OF THE PARTY...

I

Henry J Bonett

Dec 28th 2009, 20:13

It is inredible that those who rightly fought against autocracy in the 70' and 80's are advocating its practice, now that the boot is on the other foot. The abrogation of the right to vote according to one's conscience and for what is best for the country one serves, in favour of the party, whatever the excuse, does not happen in countries which are democratically healthy. I do not doubt that the few who are posting with such blind prejudice are not expressing the opinion of the majority of pn followers and are being a disservice to the party.

A. E. Abela

Dec 28th 2009, 20:05

I think we are missing the point and to suggest putting the party before one’s personal beliefs is quite fanatical. If you truly believe in something, and posses an ounce of honour, you stick to it whatever the case even if you had to die for it. I can only identify with the blogger quoting the conscience comes first. Let’s forget Dr. Debono and the current issue for a moment and ask ourselves what is a man that goes against his beliefs? A double faced imposter? The people, the party, the career, the country, etc are important but they can never surpass what you believe; cause if they do, you would have sold your soul to the devil, and if that is the case, you don’t respect yourself, let alone the people, the party, the country etc. Now back to Dr. Debono. Not only he put his party on the line and his political career, professional career, but also his family and even his own life, to see how strongly he is convinced. You have to ‘give it to the guy’, in our political history we have only seen a few that defended their cause to the end.

michael john turner

Dec 28th 2009, 19:38

What a fascinating exposition of comment Hon Franco Debono has inspired, is it a record response ? As someone who has quietly studied anthropolgical and political reactions in various countries over the years, I find some of the comments wonderfully antedeluvian. Is Malta really so far behind in the democratic process ? or are we witnessing the last flourishes of a few vociferous political dinosaurs ? I wonder what the average age of the commentators is ?

John Schembri

Dec 28th 2009, 19:28

All you people are sick with party. What is a political party? Some football team? Those are ridiculous words. The party first and foremost. This country is sick, with too much politics on the brain. In most countries politics is relegated to the place it deserves, here it rules every aspect of life and judgement. Let's hope the sickness is not terminal and you all come to your senses. And that some day politicians begin to be held accountable for their actions.

Joseph Zammit

Dec 28th 2009, 19:25

Well done Dr Debono. I dont think twice to shift my vote to who realy stand for the people as you did. PN did a lot of positive in the past dacades, but Im sorry to point out that now its showing that the mentality is aging by the minute. I hope that actions like yours help to put everything back on the right track. If PN is going to continue in this direction, soon Mr Gonzi will be walking down the stairs of "Kastilja" to the pleisure of the PL followrs. So please guys, dont be so dumb.

G.Micallef

Dec 28th 2009, 19:23

As a classmate at University I tell you, just learn from this experience and look ahead towards the future. To err is human. Good luck my friend.

Muscat. Pat

Dec 28th 2009, 19:20

@ All floating voters. "Its not what you can do for the Nation, but what you can do for the Party" So all the bla bla of the pre -1987 moral issues were just a smokescreen to win power and to "inservi " the PN Party and those selected few that had a pre booked ticket on the gravy train.

j micallef

Dec 28th 2009, 19:18

I don't know why all this fuss! The PN is still in government and Dr.Gonzi is still Prime Minister. Dr Debono has probably learnt his lesson too, and will from now on battle forcefully for his costituents tooth and nail from within the party and within the bounds of discretion - even if he is still seen now to defend his stance. Dr Debono may have now realized that harming his party in any way, even if it is an insignificant pin-prick , will not bring home the goods to his costituents, but may well place them in a worse situation. Go ahead Dr Debono, keep on fighting for your voters, but do it in a gentlemanly and acceptable way that will probably have a much better chance of getting you the results that you want.

joseph saliba

Dec 28th 2009, 18:39

The Honorable Franco Debono's words and actions are what relevant politics are all about. Talking about what matters to him and the people he represents. Acting at the right time with force but no hatred. Focused on issues and not persons. The P.N. needs gentleman like you. In fact Malta needs you.

GIov DeMartino

Dec 28th 2009, 18:08

Il-lejburisti jitkellmu fuq id-demokrazija! U gizugiz!!!Demokrazija u l-lajburisti U x'kull wahda johorgu biha! Demokrazija" JIEN, Giov DeMartino, niddikjara bil-miktub li ma nobdix l-ordnijiet tal-union tieghi" Demokrazija: Ma hallewx kazin shih. Demokrazija: Staqsuhom lill-impjegati tal-Progress Press. Demokrazija: Farrku l-Kwartieri tal-MUT; demokrazija: Tal-Barrani; demokrazija: farrku l-istamperija; x'ghedtli? Raymond Caruana? Nardu? Lino Cauchi? Pietru Pawl. Demokrazija: Diplomatici barranin ma jistghux ikellmu lill-membri ta' l-oppozizzjoni. Demokrazija: Saqsu lil istazzjon nzzjonali. U tibqghux iddahhquna l-ahwa!

martin saliba

Dec 28th 2009, 17:59

@ PN apologists. I'm sure that your reasoning wasn't the same with regard to Dom Mintoff. It is not only Dr. Debono who is iritated by his own goverment. At this moment the goverment is the same as an inmate on death row.

E. Azzopardi

Dec 28th 2009, 17:57

Many of us thought that during this period of the year we were going to have a break . It does not appear so. We already have a circus in the country. We do not need another one.

MBorg

Dec 28th 2009, 17:56

Franco Debono was elected on the NP ticket , acting the way he did " to prove a point " is not on. @ Vincenzo Pace Franco Debono does not need any special treatment, he does not " need to be handled with a kid glove " He must realize that he must act for the good of the party, if that is too much for him he should bow out of politics. No one is greater than the party

Raymond Sammut

Dec 28th 2009, 17:21

@ Etienne Vella --- "...as far as i know the people who voted you do NOT want PL in government." Those who voted him into Parliament had not wanted PL in government. But this will not necessarily be the case at the next election. Muscat will get the better of Gonzi at the next election with the way things are going. The "party" can muzzle a back-bencher, but it cannot muzzle the people.

J.Tonna

Dec 28th 2009, 17:20

@ Mike Magri - Do not add words into GBD's mouth. He did not say what you are quoting, but something in this sense (as I have forgotten the exact words) "Our children will inherit a better Malta, to do this we have to spend, if not borrow, so our children should also inherit part of the debt we will not be able to repay ourselves".

Miriam Spiteri

Dec 28th 2009, 17:18

The more I read and listen to Dr Debono's reasoning, the more I am convinced that he is supporting the wrong party. A person with a social conscience like you has no place within the ranks of the PN. The people of the south are proud of you but NOT of the party you support.

GiovDeMartino@ Franco Debono

Dec 28th 2009, 17:17

Jien jidhirli li bhala avukat, Dott Debono, ghandek toqghod attent u ma thalli lil hadd jimliek bix-xemgha. Tifhimni nahseb.

E. Vassallo

Dec 28th 2009, 16:50

Franco, jekk trid iddahhaq, ohrog wahdek u ghamel li trid. Inti tlajt bis-sahhat tal Partit Nazzjonalista. Isma mionnek id-darba li gejja ohrog wahdek u tara x' qassatta taghmel.

Henry S Pace

Dec 28th 2009, 16:50

Dr Debono, You are a young politician not to be trusted. Whatever you say your first allegiance other than to the people must follow the party line. If you want to shine in public you are not to do it at the party's expense. the people who voted you to parliament did so not because you are Franco Debono only but you were on the Nationalist Party Platform.

ray spiteri

Dec 28th 2009, 16:49

@C Camilleri
Your comments are purely political and reflect how people like you are interested in power ONLY. it seems your concern is not to loose majority and do not care at all about good goverance. give us a break. you do not realize my friend, party time is over. pn is fading and the wave of pn shifting pl is gaining momentum. and this is what worries people like c.camilleri.
ray spiteri

d.attard

Dec 28th 2009, 16:48

The bonello depuis interview really takes my breath away.

It gives me the shivers realizing that this man, who sees the opposition as an ‘enemy’ for whom the team must keep its “gunpowder dry to shoot at the enemy "; that this man was actually a finance minister called upon to serve malta. Is this the culture that prevails within the np? am i considered by a np in government as being the 'enemy?

what kind of decisions did this man take when it came to matters involving ‘the enemy’?

do those who support the ‘team spirit’ being proposed by this man realize that it is the kind of team spirit that may consider it game to assail a perceived enemy that constitutes half of malta’s population? should the lot in the red/pink/white corner consider them to be the enemy?

And all this team-sprit-against-the-enemy talk just two days after Christmas!

Dr Franco Debono may have been a fresh voice and hope for a party that may consider itself as being 'absolute'

I can fully understand why the ex-finance minister who sees enemy so easily, considers the political future of dr debono within the np to be as good as over.

Anthony Paris

Dec 28th 2009, 16:42

Dr Debono,
Whatever your motivation is, numerous people are pleased to see that you had the guts to represent your constituents and not your party's interest. You may be able to bring to an end the "winner take all" insanity of our parliament. Perhaps if more backbenchers follow your example, we will even have some opposition MP's occasionally vote with the government's proposals, if they feel it is in the interest of their constituents. Then we will have true representation in parliament. The current behaviour of MP's makes a mockery of the words "people's representatives". So stick to your concept of "people's representative" and you may make history.

c. camilleri

Dec 28th 2009, 16:19

Franco the nationalists elected you to Parliament because you contested the election under the Nationalist banner. Once you do not like party discipline you can contest the election as an independent. And then we will see how much votes you will get. There were others like you in both parties who got big headed and challenged the leadership of the party and everyone know the result. With just a few years experience in politics, you want to dictate to the leadership of your party. This is just arrogance and bombastic and as the Maltese have it " veru tela' ghar-rasek". I think that you should consider your position within the party as there should be no place for people like you in both parties. Either you work with the party or just resign and let an other trust worthy person replace you. You have done a lot of harm to yourself. Do not continue to harm the party. In the past labour MPs who abused like you were disciplined by the Vigilance Board and fined Lm5,000. it would be madness for the party to accept your nomination next time.

N.Calleja

Dec 28th 2009, 16:17

If Dr.Debono is so sure of his capabilities why didn't he choose to contest the election as an independent candidate? The last election results speak for themselves. Dr.Debono was elected because he contested on the nationalist bandwagon. If he chose any other party or as an independent, he would probably have remained stranded. He can have a try come next elections!!

Vincenzo Pace

Dec 28th 2009, 16:13

@edgar gatt
good point about ALG but....................does that mean we ignore the fact that Franco Debono needs to be handled with kid gloves. He is a loose cannon but then he does represent his constitiuents, albeit in a most unorthodox fashion.
Although I believe that the PM should hold steadfast in his approach, at the same time he should show that the PN constituents' views as transmitted via FB should be given consideration.

Etienne Vella

Dec 28th 2009, 16:02

"If I am to choose between a decision that will lengthen my political career and a decision in the interest of the people, I will always choose the people’s interests before my own,” Dr Debono responded.

ur contradicting yourself here... as far as i know the people who voted you do NOT want PL in government. thus, ur not doing 100% what the people want. your voters, voted for you because they wanted to vote PN!!

edgar gatt

Dec 28th 2009, 15:33

All you who contributed to this blog. Read carefully what Albert Leone Ganado wrote earlier on. His contribution was the one that hit the nail on the head.

victor borg

Dec 28th 2009, 15:24

G Demartino keeps convincing me about the PN's great arrgance do what i say or else
he has not stopped telling dr.Debono that his political life is over is every one so scared
of the slim majority gonzi pn has?

Anthony Grech

Dec 28th 2009, 15:19

Dear Dr. Debono

It appears that you are one of the 'few' in our country that have the courage and want to do something to stop the 'status quo'.

My question: Why did you join the PLPN in the first place? - perhaps you thought that you can change the things from 'the inside' ? - oh come on!

I am sure that deep inside you know that the only way to move forward in this country of ours is by electing a multi-party system like all other democratic countries in the world. But you seem to be trying (like many others unsuccessfully did ...including myself) to change the things from the inside.

Wish you all the best for the New Year 2010 and wish you will get the courage (not within the PNPL) to make the next courageous step!

Mike Magri

Dec 28th 2009, 15:13

Guys...This Is GBD for you all... Notary George Bonello DuPuis, as an ex Finance Minister of the then Prime Minister, Dr. Eddy Fenech Adami, once declaired this in parlament.. ".. ahna ma niddejqux niddejnu, ghax id-dejn ihallsuh uliedna u wlied uliedna.." AND that`s EXACTLY what THEY have been doing for the last Two Decades, (including the time of GonziPN of course), and with no clear hope of EVER catching up with it... On the contrary, it is worsening and growing UnSustainably bigger and bigger.. You see, that`s exactly how much GBD, EFA, GonziPN and their likes, realy cared/s about their PN Voters and the rest of the Citizens of this Country.. And not even an internationally shameful `Corruption Perception` Certificate, seemed to be bothered about..!!

FOR THEM, IT`S THE PARTY THAT COMES FIRST NOT THE BENEFIT OF MALTA AND THE HEAVILLY TAXED MALTESE VOTERS / COSTITUENTS...!!!

Under the present circumstances... WELL DONE DR. DEBONO.. THE OTHERS SHOULD FOLLOW TOO... THE SOUTH ALWAYS HAVE BEEN THE RUBBISH DUMP OF EVERY PN GOVERNMENT IN MALTESE POLITICAL HISTORY...

SHAME.. SHAME.. SHAME..

John Schembri

Dec 28th 2009, 15:13

We must be the only country where this archaic system exists. Where the politicians must be as brainwashed as the people. In the US and the UK there is no party line. The president or prime minister has a tough sell convincing respective MPs to vote his way. And he is definitely not God or supreme. What an arrogant supposition. When will we ever get somewhere as a country?

H Galea

Dec 28th 2009, 15:11

Mr Debono,you will be known as the Honest Debono,the other members support you,but can not, due to party ties.With the Law you wish to pass, we have oblications with far west,so we can not please two masters.

Joseph Cauchi

Dec 28th 2009, 15:09

As we all know, that once in a hole, it’s wise to stop digging!

The outcome is so obvious that one can only go down not up!

Franco, take heed!

JC.

laurence schembri

Dec 28th 2009, 15:06

So in fact, what some of you are saying is, when a candidate is elected to parliament, he is not elected for the good of the country and its people, but the party he represents, and all of you hypocrits call this democracy. You`ll live and learn, Glad I do not vote.

Joseph Schembri

Dec 28th 2009, 15:05

Franco Debono knows what he is saying and doing. He has spoken also about laws about political party financing. We should know who the big businessmen financing the parties are. Why is it for example that in Franco's constituency a supermarket was hastily built in an ODZ just before the election? The company that built the supermarket is suspected of financing political parties. Why was the well off nationalist mayor of another village in Franco's constituency allowed to build an ODZ villa with pool just before the elections? Franco keep pushing for more transparency. The people with brains and who will not have their 'connections' cut off respect you and will vote for you again.

Joseph Cauchi

Dec 28th 2009, 15:00

@ Albert Leone Ganado,

Very well said!

I fully concur with your analysis.

JC.

P.Scicluna

Dec 28th 2009, 14:41

@Raymond Vella
in-nanna kienet tghidlek hekk ghax il-hwejjeg taghha kienu mahmugin.Franco qed jipprova jahsel il-hwejjeg biex juri lill kullhadd li huma ndaf, imma ma jriduhx

J.Farrugia

Dec 28th 2009, 14:41

Democracy reigns supreme.....except if somebody disgarees with the (Nationalist) party!

Frederick Attard

Dec 28th 2009, 14:37

Dear Franco,

What you did gained you more respect than you'd ever know. It will be a big loss for the PN if they punish you in any way. Instead, the PN should emerge its head from under the sand and listen to what you have to say on our (electorate) behalf.

A lot of us (electorates) do not blow our own horns or waive party flags yet when the time comes we will cast our vote in silence for those representatives who we deem fit to be in parliament.

Keep up your good work and don't let anyone mum you. It is a shame that some of your fellow back benchers do not follow suit becuase they are afraid of Gonzipn.

Is-sena t-tajba Hon. Debono.

G. Portelli

Dec 28th 2009, 14:35

Franco you would have never been elected haven't you been on the nationalist's party ticket. So please give it a thought before speaking like that again. Next time round try to gain a parliament ticket by making a new party or independent and you'll see how many thousands of votes you'll get!!

Charles Sammut

Dec 28th 2009, 14:34

At least Dr Bonello Dupuis was honest about it, the interest of the party and its cronies comes before everything else. One cannot expect better from a fossillised Christian Democratic party which has drifted so far left that it can now be mistaken for a quasi-communist one.

What GonziPN has to remember is that he does not have the support of the majority of the electorate. He might have done so just marginally at the last election, but certainly not now.

We need more people like Dr Debono who keep GonziPN on his toes.

M Mifsud

Dec 28th 2009, 14:30

"Politics is not a career. Politics is a service, a mission. If I am to choose between a decision that will lengthen my political career and a decision in the interest of the people, I will always choose the people’s interests before my own,”
Dr. Franco Debono MPqabba

Mario Attard

Dec 28th 2009, 14:29

Frankly, I don't give care about local politics! Its all about the 'party' and not about the people. Far from true democracy.

I sympathise with Frank Debono's views of politics. Wow, that would really change this small country of ours! But, sadly, I have lost hope a long time ago. Partisan politics is here to stay and it will only continue to suppress this tiny population.

As for Bonello Dupuis, personally I regard him as one of those 3 to 4 most arrogant politicians from both the PN and PL sides.

Anthony Pace Gouder

Dec 28th 2009, 14:21

Prosit Dr Franco Debono . Tkellimt tassew car u tajjeb . Kompli ddefendi il-principji tieghek u ahdem ghall gid tan - nies .
Hawn x'uhud li kkumentaw HAWN TAHT li jixtiequ u jriduna nimxu bhall MERHLA MOZ ...........BEQ - BEQ - BEqqqqqq. .

J Martinelli

Dec 28th 2009, 14:19

Dr. Debono, however noble your intentions are, however forceful you want to be, Dr. Bonello Dupuis' statement that 'no man is greater than the Party' still holds true. The Party has its ideals you should have been aware of even before you contested and if you had any difficulty with the way things are done within the NP, you should have reconsidered then.

Being "the representative of the people" is a given, much more effective if on the government side. Therefore it stands to reason that by hurting the Party and cutting its chances of reelection, you seem to be aiming straight to your toes. Remember, it is much easier to fight from the inside than stamping your feet from the outside.

Circumstances change, you are absolutely right, but principles are a constant and one does not compromise principles for the sake of expediency. It is now up to you to prove that you mean what you say, that you remain on the side of the constituents the majority of whom one assumes, are Nationalists who do not want you or anyone else to jeopardize its principles which were conceived and adopted long before you were even born.

Alex Tanti

Dec 28th 2009, 14:14

The Franco Debono saga shows clearly
why so many youngsters/young in mind are disenchanted
by what the local duo political party clubs could offer....

Prior election it is
'flimkien kollox possibbli',

then right after,
its 'kollox kif irrid jien biss'....

who are they representing/serving???

Is this good governance?

Now that election is over,
noting his slim winning margin,
Gonzi ought to be listening more,

before all the costly (to the taxpayer) kiteflying/spin...
trying to convince us that somehing is in the cooking.

Arrigo and JPO please stand up!

raymond vella

Dec 28th 2009, 14:11

Dr.Franco.....in nanna ghallmitni biex qatt la tahsel il hwejjeg barra ghax id dbajja jarahom kullhadd! Is sena it tajba lill kulhadd

Galea. L

Dec 28th 2009, 14:10

J Farrugia
Jekk inti tidher li taf hafna m'hemmx ghalfejn nghidlek jien Farrugia.
Minn kif miexi l-Gvern tieghek u minn kif GBD attakka lil Dr Debono jidher kemm il-PN ihaddan id-demokrazija.
Komplu iktbu halli l-poplu jkun jaf x'partit huwa l-PN u kemm jemmen fid-demokrazija.
Kemm qed tinharqu ghax issa r-rota daret u qeghdin minn tahr Farrugia.

TG CURMI

Dec 28th 2009, 13:53

"A young fighter screaming with no time for doubt
With the pain and anger can't see a way out
It ain't much I'm asking I heard him say
Gotta find me a future move out of my way
I want it all I want it all I want it all and I want it now
I want it all I want it all I want it all and I want it now..."

(Lyrics from I WANT IT ALL by QUEEN. Any similarity to the case being discussed is merely co-incidental.)

Mario Farrugia

Dec 28th 2009, 13:51

George Bonello Dupuis was reported as saying that he found certain backbenchers' behaviour "sickening" and that no one is greater than the party....
If I find anything sickening in these recent events, it would certainly be Bonello Dupuis' own comments! What an arrogant statement by this ex-minister! So is that the way things were done in your days, Dr. Bonello Dupuis? Get the people's votes, get elected, and then not give a toss about the same persons who got YOU elected?? Yes - YOU! They did not vote for the party, but for YOU. Are you really tellling Franco Debono not to give a hoot now about the same persons who got HIM elected?
And what about the "nobody being greater than the party"?? In his interview Dr. Bonello Dupuis actually said that you do not question the party!!! Oh God! Does he realise what he said?
Thank you, Dr. Bonello Dupuis, for confirming the vile way in which this PN conducts its business....
As for Dr. Debono ruining his political career... well, I think he GBD will live to eat his words.

B Sant

Dec 28th 2009, 13:41

Dear Dr Debono

nothwitstanding all the elves attacks i commend you for your attuitude. At least there remains some parliamentarians who would not trade their soul for votes. I promised myself i never vote PN again but following your actions if you happen to be on my district in the future it might make me rethink

Jeremy J Camilleri

Dec 28th 2009, 13:30

no answer...oh well...I guess all's quiet on the Western front..according to Dr Gonzi anyway....and David Agius....

J Farrugia

Dec 28th 2009, 13:29

@ L Galea - flok tahli hinek f'dil-farsa ta' mument ahjar tghidilna la inti ta gewwa fil-labour, kif segretarju generali elett mid=-delegati jispicca jsahhan is-siggu f'One TV. Kif persuna li tista ma taqbilx mieghu mahtur Segretarju Generali ghal darba darbtejn jitnehha ghax il-Leader hekk irid. Spjegalna kif il-labour ikissirha d-demokrazija tal-partit tieghu stess ahseb u ara tal-pajjiz shih.

Galea. L

Dec 28th 2009, 13:18

J.Tonna
His constituents know who is acting on their behalf and who is dumping all the polluting industries at their front and back doors. So is this the way that you as a pn apologist want to act against those who seek to put the peoples interests first? Not that I had any doubt about the pn and its methods. Indeed I an not really surprised for I know of a certain pn family where they even didn't want a certain priest to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their parents wedding because he is a PL sympathizer even though the rest of the family are PL supporters. Has anyone seen such hatred to other Maltese citizens?

GEORGE CUTAJAR Tahsel il-hwejjeg mahmugin gewwa biss anki jekk ma jaghtux kasek hux hekk sur Cutajar? Imma inthom mhux hekk ghamiltu meta kien hemm disgwid bejn Mintoff u l-PL ghax ghamiltu xalata shiha. Issa r-rota daret sur Cutajar.

R Mizzi

Dec 28th 2009, 13:06

Dr Debono. Well done, you didn't let the people down, I think you had the courage to speech your mind and represent your constituents well. You should be trusted once again.

D.MANGION

Dec 28th 2009, 13:04

I would go a step further !
I would say that an MP's primary obligation is towards his own concience. The interests of the people come afterwards, whilst the interest of the party should come third.

Eg. If in my concience I am against abortion, I would never vote in favour of it...even if my constituents really, really want it.....even if my vote would lead to a vote of no confidence for the party I represent.

I think that it is highly obscene to force individuals (from any party) to bargain with their own concience for the benefit of the party.

Dr. Debono has made his first steps in the right direction. Just like Dr. Wenzu Mintoff did 20 years or so ago. He might never be re-elected again, but he'll probably be at peace with his pillow....(which is everybody's greatest enemy !)

C Pace

Dec 28th 2009, 13:02

Dr. Debono, if you feel that you are more comfortable to put up your personal flag (not that of the PN), why don't you dissasociate yourself and leave the party? Stay as an independent MP.

To all PL supporters, have you forgot that some years ago similar people within your party were publicly called TRADITURI by your leadership? Moreover please keep in mind that the PN has so much ruined the country that maltese boloh have continued to show confidence in it for 25 years! And before the last election MLP was sure to win!

Charles Zammit

Dec 28th 2009, 13:00

@ George Cutajar .
I am sure that this gentleman is not from this area , probably from the " Posh " part of Malta .I am sure if he had to put up with what we have to down this way he would sing a different tune .
As come next elections I am willing to bet that Franco Debono will have more strength than he has now as the people in these areas appreciate the work he is doing for the inhabitants of all hues . Has beens should sit back and enjoy their " Careers " and let fresh brains get on doing good work without the arrogance shown by earlier politicians , as once was suggested by a young politician to an elderly one , they should sit back and write their memoirs.

TG CURMI

Dec 28th 2009, 13:00

"A young fighter screaming with no time for doubt
With the pain and anger can't see a way out
It ain't much I'm asking I heard him say
Gotta find me a future move out of my way
I want it all I want it all I want it all and I want it now
I want it all I want it all I want it all and I want it now."

(with apologies to QUEEN)

J.Tonna

Dec 28th 2009, 12:57

@ Galea L. 'Dr Debono has the support of his constituents' Are you sure of that?? Come next election and we will see.

@'MPs represent the people who elect them because they elect them through their vote not the parties' Here I agree with you, but remember that the people who elected Dr Debono elected him because he was in the PN fold. Now if he goes against their wish they will just discard him.

Marija Falzon

Dec 28th 2009, 12:55

The quesiton is not why this particular MP is having a fallout with Dr. Gonzi and his leadership. Its that many PN people don't indentify themselves with their party anymore. If it was just one person, its one thing, but with some many back benchers, like Jesmond Mugliette, Robert Arrigo, Ninu Zammit, JPO, and other dignified personalities like Joe Borg, all have a problem with Dr. Gonzi, then the problem must lay with his leadership. Its just a matter of someone taking a bold action.

R. Caruana

Dec 28th 2009, 12:51

Yes, Dr Debono, you represent those that elected you on the PN ticket, those people that you have badly let down. Those who voted for you are highly disappointed, and you only have to go out and ask them. And if you believe that by this action they can ever trust you again, you are greatly wrong.

mcutajar

Dec 28th 2009, 12:50

I do not share the same politcal views of Dr Debono, although I know his capibilities. We as people of Mxlokk are being traeted as citizens of second class or third class from the present government. Dr Debono is representing this village and he is trying to look at Marsaxlokk people first. i would like to ask where are the other MPS of the south representing the government. Are they just interested in votes? Just to let you know our roads are off roads and full or rubbish. We have powerstation and Freeport, now organisation in the market and so on and so fault. You have to live it to talk about it

ray spiteri

Dec 28th 2009, 12:48

@Anthony J Camilleri
You are correct, Dr. De Puis and De Martino did in fact motivate me to switch to PL. And many to follow. Keep talking George and Giovanni.
RAYMOND SPITERI

j.spiteri

Dec 28th 2009, 12:48

Words of a true Socialist. Keep it up and maybe one day you will see that the light is much brighter on the other side for progressives like yourself.

victor borg

Dec 28th 2009, 12:47

I agree with dr.Franco Debono the country and its people come first he allready spoke
against what is happening in the south where the govt. turned it into a rubbish dump,
there is the highest number of people suffering from asthma .The govt.after 10 years has
not solved the black dust problem dr.Debono and other back benchers have been trying
to tell dr. Gonzi to listen to the cries of all the people we should have more polititians
like Franco yes MALTA and GOZO allways come before the parties

GEORGE CUTAJAR

Dec 28th 2009, 12:40

Will this MP ever learn a lesson and stop creating problems? What was the lesson he wanted to teach Gonzi and what point did he want to prove? What was so urgent that lead him to abandon his mates in a time of need? His attitude is harming not only himself but also his party and the government.
Dr. Bonello du Puis made very interesting points in his interview and young MP's, from all sides of the political divide, should cherish the Notary's learned words. If you are not happy with the way things are going you have many options open - you either try and discuss matters internally through the party whip, or else just shut up and lump it or the final option simply bow out gracefully. Sulking and stamping feet will get you nowhere as after all a politician is elected only if he is accepted by his party on whose ticket he runs.
I honestly think that Dr. Debono shold look at the last alternative as come three years time his chances of re-election on a PN ticket are very remote, to say the least.

Marcel Dingli

Dec 28th 2009, 12:38

Oqghod attent Franco ! ghax il pass li jmiss jista jkun li jipprovaw jghadduk ta mignun. Mhux hekk ipprovaw jaghmlu b haddiehor.?! Insemmi wiehed biss, Josie Muscat, pero il lista itwal.

Muscat Pat

Dec 28th 2009, 12:38

All that we hear from the "democratic" brigade is the charade about the "good" of the Party. The "good" of the nation never seems to cross their minds. Dr Debono should be applauded; he has given us an insight of how the "sancta sanctorum" of the "real" PN works. Self interest and wheeler dealer of the selected few families comes first .

J.Borg

Dec 28th 2009, 12:35

Can Mr.Martinelli tell us maltese people in which face did the balloon explode now.......is it in the face of the PL as you have recently wrote or in your blue eyes and that of GONZIPN

Lawrence Fenech

Dec 28th 2009, 12:26

Yes Dr. Debono you are right. Individual parlamentarians are there to represent the people who elected them for that reason.

Backing the party to be elected is a different matter.

Anthony J. Camilleri

Dec 28th 2009, 12:25

In my opinion the PN is apt to lose more pale blue votes whenever people like George Bonello Dupuis ... or Giovanni DeMartino open their mouth.

F J Brincat

Dec 28th 2009, 12:25

In that case, how about we disassemble all the political parties?

Let us do away with them because it is becoming obvious that the natural structure of a political party, irrespective of which side of political spectrum it lies, is inhibiting a lot of politicians from actually doing what the people who voted for them want.

In parliament, how about we have true peoples’ representatives - MPs who have been elected on their own personal merit rather than a party agenda/ticket.

How about we have “humans” sitting on those seats not party puppets who clap, shout and bang on the benches and who have to “tow the line”.

Never you mind about whether or not the government should subsidize the parties – get rid of the party structure already.

Put that in your pipe and smoke it till you choke.

Silvan Mifsud

Dec 28th 2009, 12:19

Dr.Debono, though I never met you, I understand your frustration. This is the pitiful state of Maltese politics, whereby the majority of the electorate is so polarised and blindfolded, who would prefer to have you do nothing and just toe the party line, than represent faithfully their own interests. You speak about a law on party financing. A law which is in the interest of every citizen to make sure that political parties reperesent the interests of all citizens and not of those who secretly finance them. However, while both parties, pay lip servce on the importance of such a law, little true progress is being made on this. On the other hand Maltese citizens are too blindfolded to realise that it is in their best interest to have a law on party financing. The truth is that politics in Malta has and still works in the interest of polarisation alone, which has now become ingrained in the vast majority of Maltese citizens.Polarisation helps to keep minds off the ball and important matters, and onto trivial matters. While the task is enormous, and the chances of success very slim, I sincerely wish you the best of luck!

Charles Zammit

Dec 28th 2009, 12:18

Well done Dr Franco Debono . I agree with your sentiments . For one you are honest and as one of your constituents living in Birzebbuga I appreciate the attention you are giving to this long forgotten village . It has been turned into the largest industrial area , we have all the types of pollution one can mention , be it noise pollution ( Freeport ) & ( Airport ) Emissions from The Power station & Ships at the Freeport , Light pollution ( Freeport ) Gas Plant as yet still amidst habitable buildings , The Oil Tanking and I could go on Ad Infinitum .
What we do not have are decent roads a decent playing field a still pile of rubble of a waterpolo pitch , no filters at the Power station once more I could go on and on . We have had Birzebbuga ruined and it's people have had hardly anything to show for such inconveniences . As for Dr Bonello Du Puis & his Sliema FC he did a few things for Sliema such as a synthetic football pitch etc as Finance Minister he did absolutely nothing for this
area .

Francis Attard

Dec 28th 2009, 12:16

There is no room for honest people in politics. That is what I realized when I was directly involved in it.
At the end of the day what interests most in politicians is their personal interests (their career).

Joseph Schembri

Dec 28th 2009, 12:15

It is more people like Franco that we need in the PN. His statement about that fact that suspects are still not granted the rights available in every democratic country to legal assistance during interrogation shows us that he speaks for the people.

As minister of Justice we have Dr. Carm Mifsud Bonnici, who despite having his heart in the right place, has still not implemented the law that grants a basic human right during police interrogation. Franco Debono would be irresponsible if he did not speak out publicly about this, seeing that the minister concerned has taken no action despite international pressure to stop this human right abuse in Malta.

Franco keep it up. If you government does not take necessary action when you speak privately then go public as you have done. Your first duty is to the citizen whom you directly represent not to the party.

Jeremy J Camilleri

Dec 28th 2009, 12:13

Why all these argument and debates by Pn Sympathisers the likes of Demartino and the rest who are attacking Dr. Debono?

Have they forgotten that both David AGius and Lawrence Gonzi said that nothing is amiss, what happened in parliament was just a stupid labour spin, and Dr Debono did nothing wrong....oops.....

ALBERT FENECH

Dec 28th 2009, 12:12

I don't know Dr Debono personally, but I feel for him. He seems too honest a person to be in politics and certainly too honest to be a member of the PN and to be tolerated or accepted by them. He may not fancy "the other side" i.e. the PL but that is his prerogative. Honesty in politics is not to be found anywhere in the world. Looking for honesty in politics in Malta is the last place on earth that one should start looking. His rebukes from Dr George Bonello DuPuis is probably the ultimate in insult. If I remember rightly, those many years ago Dr Dupuis first sought the folds of the MLP with his proposal to do away with Income Tax and was flatly turned down by fiery Dom Mintoff. He then went off and joined the NP. Correct me if I am wrong but that is the REAL stuff of politics in Malta!

H Dempster

Dec 28th 2009, 12:10

I dont Know Dr Debono, but i feel that i must congratulate him the way he handled things last week. He had the guts to show the government and the people that he has a mind of his own and says what is blue is blue and what is red, is red. Many people have taken it against him for this. His only obligation is to first , his costituents, and secondly to the people of Malta and not the government nor the party. If the pn dont like it they should ask him to leave the party and let him rule his domain in parliament on his own, (which is more democratic.). It is totaly unfair to force dr Debono to shut his mount and to do what the party dictates. there is only one name to this attitude FACISM, with which the party used to associate in the past.

Galea. L

Dec 28th 2009, 12:08

J.Tonna and other pn apologists
Dr Debono has the support of his constituents. What he did was simply because all the back-benchers have been constantly and totally ignored by arrogant GONZI. Dr Debono is right. MPs represent the people who elect them because they elect them through their vote not the parties even though they contest on a party ticket. See Schedule 2 and 3 of the Constitution on the Oath taken by the Prime Minister, Ministers and MPs. Did the people elect a leader or a dictator? A leader listens before deciding. GONZI listens to no one, not even his backbenchers.

mario gellel A.Magri Perfect example of PN hypocrisy

Malcolm Farrugia

Dec 28th 2009, 12:07

Well done Mr Debono, you are a true politician. That is what politics is all about, a service towards the nation(people). Don't let yourself be put down by comments from retired politicians who certainly are partisan lackeys. If only there where enough politicians of your stout the quality of life experienced in Malta will be far different than that we experience nowaday!
Well done and I wish you a happy festive season to you and all your family.

M. Azzopardi

Dec 28th 2009, 12:04

When people vote for an MP they vote for him because he is on a party's ticket. If for example Dr.Debono would have contested as an independent candidate he would not have been elected. So as long as you are elected on a party's ticket you have to be loyal to your party and to your leader. This applies to MP's on both sides of the parliament. A person like Dr. Debono has all the right to criticise and to put forward his opinion, however I think he has a lot to learn for people such as Dr. Bonello Dupuis. I, personally, would not trust again a person who is not there to vote with his party in parliament. There is surely a big difference between him and his predecessors who used to be elected from the same district.

Christian Sciberras

Dec 28th 2009, 12:01

J.Tonna - I'm sure you have a reputable source of your statistics? No? My bad.
I certainly am not an MLP fanboy (yes, that's what they're called), yet I agree with Dr Debono.

albert leone ganado

Dec 28th 2009, 11:50

Dr. Debono should understand that he is just a rookie in parliament and like any rookie he must adjust to the culture of how a local parliamentary team works. He has already been given responsibilities well beyond what his experience merits and he should realise that there are at least half a dozen other more senior and deserving backbenchers
I am afraid he has committed three major errors which have seriously compromised his future political career.
First is that he has crossed the thin line between being tolerated as a dissident albeit with some interesting initiatives and being seen as a rebel whose loyalty is in doubt.
Second is that he has embarassed the prime minister at least twice in public something which no considerate team player ever does especially after the prime minister offered him a sop and more than he deserved.
Third he was foolish enough to act as a stalking horse for other more devious rebels who hid behind his tantrums and would as all of us know be the first to disown him
I am afraid he needs a lesson in teamwork relations.

J.Tonna

Dec 28th 2009, 11:45

@ Dr Debono - You said that you 'wanted to make several “urgent” points, not arm the Opposition'. With your actions this is what you are doing, those who are supporting you in these blogs are those who usually toe the PL line.

You are new in parliament and need to learn more. For example you missed the point that the leader of the PN and thus the PM was chosen to lead and not to obey orders from his followers. If you are not happy in the PN you may change your party, may be they will allow you to criticise them, if not ask you to pay 1000 Euro for not towing the party line.

John Tabone

Dec 28th 2009, 11:45

Dear Dr.Debono... Do you think that the Prime Minister, the members of the Cabinet, the whip,your fellow backbenchers (bar a couple), your constituents and the Party agreed to the way you tried to belitte the government ???? If you honestly feel that your action was correct, then most probably a repetition of your antic (or another backbencher) will soon re-occur.
Dr.Debono said " in Dr Bonello Dupuis’ time the backbench was much smaller and the Cabinet much larger" now I understand that the non appointment of a Minister that is really irritating him a little teeny weeny bit. Happy New Year.

Charles Micallef

Dec 28th 2009, 11:42

Members of Parliament are elected in the first instance to represent the people who elect them and not the political parties who think that as soon as they are elected on party's ticket they own them, their views and their minds...

It is clear that political parties of all persuasions think that once you become a member of their respective political party, you are not allowed to speak your mind as you will upset the party’s cart...and be assured if you do speak your mind and the truth as you see it, the party in government will make sure that they will pay you in kind...as I have personally experienced....and then they call this democracy...what a joke>>>!

M Mifsud

Dec 28th 2009, 11:28

"Politics is not a career. Politics is a service, a mission. If I am to choose between a decision that will lengthen my political career and a decision in the interest of the people, I will always choose the people’s interests before my own,”
Dr. Franco Debono MP

s pace

Dec 28th 2009, 11:26

Reading the Sunday Times' interview with the Police Commissioner, he stated that what you are proposing will hinder their efficient and effective fight against crime. So I do not think that what you are proposing is in the best interest of a good chunk of society.

I have a direct interest that honest citizens that most of us are are protected, with no loopholes. You are not representing me in this, sorry.

Roderick Mizzi

Dec 28th 2009, 11:26

It is true that as an MP he represents the Party, but lets not forget that the Party SHOULD represent the people. As a voter I am giving the delegation to the MP to speak my voice. If there was no such thing, why should we lose time and go voting?

Is the vote our voice or not? After all he did not vote against the party, he just abstained from voting as he believed he should do so.

Let’s show these close minded people that Parliament is no place for puppets anymore!

Joseph Sciberras

Dec 28th 2009, 11:21

Dr Debono's intnetions are more than suspect. People voted for him also because they wanted the PN to be in government and he has an overriding duty to respect that. His actions are merely attention-grabbing and publicity seeking that served only one purpose, to please the opposition. It is more than likely that he can kiss goodbye to his parliamentary career now.

VV Bartolo

Dec 28th 2009, 11:12

i agree perfectly with Dr. Debono. MPs represent the people & they're no puppets on a string! ... and this goes to all the MPs both PN & LP. They have all rights to voice their opinion (and the constituents).

There should be more people like MP Franco Debono representing us.

keep up yr good work Dr. Debono! wishing you & yr loved ones a blessed 2010

mario gellel

Dec 28th 2009, 11:09

@PN commentators.

If you say that you are the party of Democracy, then you should accept all that is democratic and let anyone bring their arguments to be heard and analized. In the 90's when Mintoff took it against Sant, nobody from the PN side said that it was untidemocratic but made Mintoff a Saint. Franco Debono has every right to protest and vote against what he thinks is wrong for the people. he is an aspiration to Democracy.Malta needs more like him, if we are to call ourselves a DEMOCRATIC COUNTRY>

A.Magri

Dec 28th 2009, 11:07

Truth of the matter is that both parties and their rednecked cohorts prefer their politicians to behave like doped white mice. Franco may have 'ruined his career' but he has strengthened his values which will be appreciated elsewhere.

In 1998 the PN followed Mintoff with beaming faces knowing very well what the consequences would be. Now that the tables have turned all a veteran such as Bonello Dupuis could come up with is a backstabbing attack.

GiovDeMartino@ Franco Debono

Dec 28th 2009, 11:06

Would you still be representing the people IF YOU WERE MADE A MINISTER? Kemm hsibthom fidili lin-nies Dr Debono? To err is humane....to persist in error is another thing.

Gianninu Saliba

Dec 28th 2009, 11:03

Yes, Dr. Debono is right. Members of Parliament are elected by the people and thus represent the people. He is also right in stating that MPs are elected on a Party ticket. However, he seems to have missed the point. More than 99% of those who voted for him are PN supporters. Thus he does not represent all the electorate in his district, meaning that he should speak and act on behalf of those who voted for him. Dr Debono said he had been calling for a law on party financing and it “baffled” him how a democracy could thrive in 2010 without such a law. What makes him believe that those who elected him are in favour of such a law? Unless he can prove that those who voted for him are in favour of such a low, he must tow the Partly line. If the Party is not ready to present such a law, then he must sit down, chill out and learn to wait.

I do appriciate the fact that Dr. Debono is proud to be part of the Nationalist Party, hence he must act accordingly. His loyalty must be towards those who elected him... PN Supporters.

S. Fenech

Dec 28th 2009, 11:02

Thumbs up to Franco Debono! Young people are able to inject that much needed fiery touch to how politics with a large P always functioned. Dr.Debono, you have all my support!

J Oatmon

Dec 28th 2009, 11:01

I find these sentiments or Nationalist backbencher Franco Debono, to be honest, full of truth and integrity. I agree 'the party' is not the 'top dog' in a democracy - it is the people, and it seems to me that many politicians think they are superior to everyone else, and we should just shut up and 'kow tow' to them in their wisdom.
The fact is the people look to their politicians, to fight for their rights, and uphold truth and justice, not duck and dive from responsibility and just let things slide, and then just feather their own nests.

Well done Franco.

Henry J Bonett

Dec 28th 2009, 10:57

I support Dr Debono's view to the hilt. Putting pressure on a Member of Parliament to place whichever party before national interest is a grave form of abuse. It is evident that Dr Debono has what it takes to be an MP. What is required is to harness that energy into something positive (for Malta, not the party). It is far better to have a failed Loyola than a successful Luther. Self-inflated bigwigs please learn!

Robert Zammit

Dec 28th 2009, 10:56

Carry on your good work, Dr. debono !! If only there were politicins as honest as you are, this country of ours would run much better. I think first and foremost politicians are the people's representatives not party reps ! There should be more people like Franco Debono representing the people !!

mario camilleri

Dec 28th 2009, 10:56

MPs DO REPRESENT THE PEOPLE. BUT FRANCO DEBONO SHOULD REMEMBER THAT HE REPRESENTS THE PN. THE PEOPLE THAT ELECTED FRANCO ARE IN THE MAJORITY PN SUPPORTERS, SO HE REPRESENTS THE PN. AS GEORGE BONELLO DUPUIS SAID NO ONE IS GREATER THAN THE PARTY.

Joe Micallef

Dec 28th 2009, 10:45

Mr. Debono,

I honestly had high hopes about you but you have wasted most of them. You would solely represent the people who elected you if you presented yourself on your own ticket. Since you have chosen to present yourself with a particular party your first allegiance is to the electoral program and structures of that party. Having said that, I would be annoyed if I knew that whenever there was need you sat on your laurels and did not “bring the house” down internally, but no organisation worth its salt be it an NGO, a political party or a commercial entity can accept your behaviour which is tantamount with throwing out the baby with the bath water!.

I suggest you take a step back and reconsider your strategy – despite all I feel you have much to offer.

carmel schembri

Dec 28th 2009, 10:45

Franco
as one of your electors i would like you to realise you are still in time to show one and all that you have ruined nothing. You are still towing the party line. I voted for you only because you were a new promising face within the NP. Don't disapoint me and many others further. I reiiterate you are still in time. I know you can!!!!

Andrew Cachia

Dec 28th 2009, 10:42

So it was'nt a labour spin afterall. I think it's about time PN stops taking people for a ride and measuring people with their own yardstick