Peter Micallef wins casual election

Updated: Adds new video

Peter Micallef was this morning elected to Parliament in a casual election to fill the seat vacated by John Dalli.

He inherited 2,644 votes when the quota was 1,879.

His victory was apparent early in the counting process and the only other candidate in the race, Robert Musumeci, quickly conceded defeat and congratulated Dr Micallef.

Mr Musumeci got 1,045 votes.

In comments to the press, Mr Musumeci revealed that he had meetings with the Prime Minister before submitting his nomination. He said they had discussed various matters, but he reiterated that he was never told not to contest the election.

At about 10 a.m. when vote counting was still under way, Mr Musumeci was seen approaching Dr Micallef and shaking hands with him.

MICALLEF THANKS ELECTORATE

Dr Micallef in brief comments thanked the electorate for its confidence.

Asked about his views on the healthcare reform, since he is a medical doctor, Dr Micallef said he had his position but this was not the right time to discuss it.

Dr Micallef's victory means that he will now have to step down from the Zebbug council and a casual election will have to be held to fill his seat there.