PN leader approved Sliema mayor's dismissal
Lawrence Gonzi agreed with his party’s decision to dismiss Nikki Dimech after the young Sliema mayor admitted to the police that he solicited a bribe during a tender process – an admission he has since withdrawn.
However, Mr Dimech, who has insisted that he was being framed, has still refused to resign from his post as mayor, saying that he would not do so unless he gets a “fair trial”.
In a letter published today, the PN’s information director Frank Psaila says the party’s decision to kick him out is “final” and was taken by the party’s administration with the approval of party leader Dr Gonzi.
This statement comes less than 24 hours after Mr Dimech told The Sunday Times he would resign if Dr Gonzi told him to do so, because he trusted the Prime Minister’s judgment and was expecting to meet him to discuss the issue this week.
Until now, Mr Dimech has said he had no reason to resign because he only admitted to the “false accusations” during a second police interrogation after suffering a panic attack and telling the police “what they wanted to hear”. The police have said all his rights under interrogation were respected.
Mr Dimech also alleged that his dismissal went against the party statute because he was not given the chance to give his version of the story in a formal sitting. However, the party said he failed to attend a meeting specifically scheduled for this purpose.
Contacted yesterday, Mr Dimech said that, in the interview with The Sunday Times, he only said he would resign if Dr Gonzi told him to do so after their meeting.
“Dr Gonzi has still not heard my side of the story, so I will stick to what I said,” Mr Dimech said.
The PN has also denied that Mr Dimech had a scheduled meeting this week with Dr Gonzi and stressed that Mr Dimech was never considered or approved to contest the general election, even though he told the press he had such aspirations.
“The Nationalist Party is still expecting Mr Dimech to resign from the position of mayor and councillor on the basis of his grave statements of political incorrectness and will present a motion of no confidence should he fail to resign from the post.”
Mr Psaila says Mr Dimech’s words expose him and the press to libel suits because he alleged a “frame-up” and “organised attempts” by general secretary Paul Borg Olivier to get him out of the party.
Mr Dimech also alleged collusion between Dr Borg Olivier and the police, something the party has strongly denied.
“It was Mr Dimech himself who informed the general secretary by e-mail that he would be interrogated by the police. It was for that purpose that Dr Borg Olivier made contact with Mr Dimech late afternoon of the same day. For this purpose, any allegation of conspiracy is nothing but a libellous stroke of fiction.”
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JAFarrugia
Aug 25th 2010, 14:51
One things i'd like to know is when Mr Dimech was questioned by the Police was this done in front of his lawyer or has that law not gone into practice yet, are we still in line with 3rd world countries who deny you a lawyer when being questioned???? if so it is truly unbelievable and we form part of the EU ??
Alex Caffari
Aug 28th 2010, 12:03
The first thing any police officer in a moment of honesty will tell you, is that you should never tell the police anything if you are the subject of an investigation. The reason for this is that surely whatever you say or even suggest, will be used against you with maximum prejudice. That is why people who are subjected to questioning have a right to remain silent and a right to have a lawyer present should they decide to make any statements.
a.demicoli
Aug 25th 2010, 06:00
This whole saga keeps getting soo jumbled up that I sincerely believe that the real reasons and scope behind it all have still not been revealed. Maybe the general public might get a clearer picture when we read who the PN candidates contesting the 10th District will be.
P.Cutajar
Aug 24th 2010, 10:57
As a Sliema resident I insist that Nikki Dimech should resign from Mayor with immediate effect. Under his mayorship Sliema is a mess and now even more so that his only interest is trying to come clean after having admitted of asking for commission - an unlawful act and a very grave offence. So Mr. Dimech, have the decency to resign
J.Pace
Aug 24th 2010, 13:02
Why he should resign if still not found guilty??? Because PBO, Gonzi PN and YOU say so?
He signed in a panic state , do you think that he could have been acting normal in that state?
Come on wait and see till a normal jury finish its work, if he wasn't one of your choice as a mayor for Sliema, he was from the once that voted for him!
This thing seems fishy as everything is done in a hurry, and also it is being done when EU is doing their enquires on the New Malta Power station contract.
Peter Korsten
Aug 25th 2010, 12:30
@ J. Pace
"He signed in a panic state [..]"
That's what he claims. We don't know whether he was in a state of panic or not.
But we do know that (a) the police had enough reason to interrogate him, and (b) that he confessed to soliciting a bribe. In most democratic societies, the person involved would have resigned by now, whether or not he would be found guilty later on.
There are plenty of examples of public officials being accused of one thing or another, resigning because of that, and being cleared afterwards.
Rita Dimech Portelli
Aug 23rd 2010, 20:50
The 1,800 people who voted for Nikki Dimech voted for him because he was representing the P.N. not for him to continue this farce as an independent mayor. Step down immediately, to save face, and if you are proved right then contest the elections again.
gcForte
Aug 25th 2010, 09:23
Rita Dimech Portelli...........How do you know that 1800 voters voted Nikki Dimech because he was representing the P.N. Amazing from were you brought this theory, because not even Nostradamus can come up with something like this. HUX ? Qeghedin titfixklu.
H Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 19:30
I am a blogger from Sliema and, in light of what has been reported over the past week, I'm not in favour of Nikki stepping down simply to please PBO and the Deputy Mayor who, coincidentally, happens to share the PM's surname. PN has more serious matters to deal with and which are undermining its integrity and this whole story looks more like a smokescreen. Until PN decides to use the same level of disciplinary action vis-a-vis its members, Nikki should stay on and defend his position in court and the mandate given to him by the 1800 people who elected him, which is more than double the amount of votes obtained by the next person in line.
Elaine Zammit
Aug 23rd 2010, 18:32
All bloggers here who are not from Sliema please stop politicising this issue.
1.Sliema cannot have a mayor who admitted to soliciting bribes
2. Sliema cannot have a mayor who is more interested in defending his name instead of working towards the best interest of us residents
3. Sliema deserves a better Mayor than Mr. Dimech who does not have what it takes to be Mayor of such important locality
4. Nikki Dimech must resign and stop once and for all his intransigence
David Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 18:50
1.Malta cannot have a police corps that acts for the interest of a political party at the expense of justice
2. Malta cannot have a police corps which uses "torture" to get what they want.
3. Malta deserves a better Government than PN whose Secretary General tries in broad daylight to manipulate people and abuse his power to his advantage.
4. Paul Borg Olivier must resign and stop once and for all his intransigence
Jon Vercellono
Aug 23rd 2010, 18:52
Personally, the Local Council of Sliema should be appointed by election consisting of the other cities and villages of Malta. THe past election you had the opportunity to reelect to your council a councillor who did everything in his power (in a spirit of cooperation and teamwork) to work for the good of the citizens. You politicised the issue through your colour blindedness and did not exhibit rationality in exercising your vote. Now the chickens have come home to roost. Sorry to be blunt, but a fantastic candidate was rejected based (which is backed up statistically) upon politicisation. Please spare us the diatribe.
Salvu Schembri
Aug 23rd 2010, 19:05
Elaine Zammit who do you think you are to tell the people who although not from Sliema also contribute to Sliema from their taxes not to comment? Whatever you say Elaine, people will continue to express their opinion because they are fed up with the PN.
Carmel Garcia
Aug 24th 2010, 07:20
Are you in favour of the Vice mayor Ms Zammit? So we are in a democratic state and indipendent one also. So we are free to comment on any issue of any kind. So let the court decide who is saying the truth. He who have no sin will throw the first stone.
J.Pace
Aug 24th 2010, 07:55
Admitting under stress, panic, pressure and with asthma attack, cannot be considered that Mr Dimech was in a very clear good condition to think what he was doing.
Being you from, Sliema, people like you elected him, so because Gonzi PN club and PBO would like to damage his image before even letting him to defend him self or even find him guilty in fount of court, does not mean that he should resign to let another Gonzi person in charge and make you happy.
Hearing the PN club, denying of having an appointment with Mr Dimech or that there were no intention that the club would backed Mr Dimech for the next election, these could be easily been removed and negated for the news and to damage more his image!
It’s a shame from the PN, it is better that they worry for the New Power station problem, as it is getting bigger.
Dr Francis Saliba
Aug 23rd 2010, 18:17
Dear mayor Nikki, I do not know you at all and I am not interested in any true or alleged personal animosities and associated political manouvering. I am only interested in the restoration of the people’s confidence in the representatives running their local councils. Your determined, dogged perseverance in rejecting the PN request for your resignation is not compatible with your claim that you are some weakling “easy catch”. You should have shown the same resolute steadfastness where it really mattered most, that is when you were helping the police with their investigation and your debatable allegations of “torture”. These do not appear to be any different from the discomfort and unpleasantness of all such situations. In the name of God, GO, and allow the Sliema Local Council to resume functioning normally. At the same time I express my genuine wish for your success in proving your innocence, if you are in fact innocent, and in persuading everyobody which of your contradictory admissions to believe.
Alison Borg
Aug 23rd 2010, 18:14
Kull ma jonqos hu li Muscat sends for Nikki Dimech u jghid lill Laburisti 'Hobbuh ghax ihobbkom' !
gcForte
Aug 25th 2010, 09:13
Alison Borg...................Nahseb ahjar jibghat ghalih tal GonziPN........u jghejdlu li ....FLIMKIEN KOLLOX POSSIBBLI...................HUX. ? (;
Peter Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 17:52
Incredible how Labour bloggers and Super One News are defending Nikki Dimech despite having admitted to solicitibg bribes in his role as Mayor!! Just imagine what they would have done had the PN defended Dimech! As for Nikki Dimech his only option is: RESIGN NOW
David Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 18:12
You seem to forget that Nikki Dimech's first statement denied all accusations.
As for Nikki Dimech his only sensible option is : STAY PUT - FIGHT ON
Charles J. Buttigieg
Aug 23rd 2010, 17:23
Niki Dimech’s claim that he was framed and forced to sign a confession because of his medical condition can’t be ignored. Those who are asthmatic know exactly the look and feel of panic as breathlessness sets in. If Nikki’s public statement is a lie, why aren't the Police suing him for the infamous malafama?
Robert Agius
Aug 23rd 2010, 17:12
The 70's and 80's revisited. Will things get out of hand? History teaches but humans rarely learn.
Charles J. Buttigieg
Aug 23rd 2010, 17:11
Nikki Dimech jakkuza lil Pawlu Borg Olivier bi frame up!
Pawlu Borg Olivier ghamilli frame-up biex inehhini mn-nofs sa l-elezzjoni Generali li jmiss " - Nikki Dimech f'intervista lil the Sunday times....
www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sp61spbPoE" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/l/ac561p85c5cGHuk14fh0_7FPzdg;www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sp61spbPoE
Irrespective of its veracity this is a serious accusation-Can truth loving people deny that this calls for a police investigation? I never voted PN and have no interest at all in defending one Nazzjonalist and accusing the other, they are both my political adversaries, my interest is to see that the real culprit\s get what they deserve. At the end of the day the whole issue is about political sleaze and corruptions and whatever the final results it is all about PN sleaze.
R Cassar
Aug 23rd 2010, 17:06
Honestly I was not expecting a different reaction from the party...PBO's actions have put them in the corner...
It is easy to deny that Nikki Dimech was considered for the next GE...
But do you expect us to believe that there was a meeting (to adhere to the statute of the party) to discuss his dismissal and which he did not attend when the PM was in Germany...and PBO "expeled" him shortly after the article concerning the police questioning was in the media...when was this meeting?? During the night?? Come on, at least show some respect towards your people...and admit that PBO did it all alone because he could not handle the situation he got himself into...
And what about the alleged email from Dimech :) ... did he also inform PBO at what time he would have walked out of the depot, since the latter called him right away, thus knowing he had been released!!! This is an insult to people's intellegence!!!
And if there is nothing hidden, why didn't the PM just call him or speak up rather than informing the press through a letter forwarded by some party insider!!!
N.Farrugia
Aug 23rd 2010, 16:54
The more I read about this telenovela I continue to persuade myself that someone is blatantly lieing. Who is it? That's the one milluion dollar question. In my opinion Mr.Dimech is regularly moving the goalposts to suit his defence. This is not good for his reputation because he's losing credibility.
Alex Caffari
Aug 23rd 2010, 16:22
In my humble opinion, the honorable thing for Mayor Dimech to do is resign and stand for re-election immediately (if that is even possible???. Not sure what the procedure would be).
This is not to suggest that Mayor Dimech is guilty of anything, but recent events have cast a shadow of doubt over his ability to conduct his business honestly and transparently. No politician can properly serve his or her constituents without their absolute confidence and the confidence of the rest of the council.
False allegations are made all the time, but rarely does a politician sign a statement of guilt (whether under duress or not) and still remain in office without putting that decision to the people. Yes Mr Dimech is innocent until proven guilty but that is a matter of law, not confidence.
Let it be known that I have no interest in this particular case as I am not a resident of Sliema nor am I a partisan supporter. I am only offering my objective views on the matter.
As far as PBO is concerned, what he allegedly did with Councillor Camilleri is corrupt and politically inexcusable, and he should resign also.
Rachel Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 16:14
A Mayor who admits to soliciting bribes, as Nikki Dimech did, has no other option but to resign ... As a Sliema resident I've had enough of these theatrics...Nikki should resign immediately
Joseph Cauchi
Aug 23rd 2010, 16:14
Whether Nikki is corrupt or not is the only question that he himself only knows the answer.
However, he would be a fool to believe that he can change the truth just by denying what actually happened and believe he will survive both politically or professionally.
Nikki Dimech must press the “Damage Control Mode” button NOW if he wants to survive professionally in Malta; otherwise the more he lingers the greater the damage!
He is still young and has a whole life ahead of him; then why throw this opportunity away?
If on the other hand he IS truly innocent, although signing that “confessional” statement, then he should find himself a DARN good lawyer to fight his case
He should not be impressed by certain comments of support by those that have an ulterior agenda because they are only using Nikki to obscure the Government and the Prime Minister and they don’t give a hoot to Nikki as Nikki the person, but as a means to attack the PN.
Once the juice is squeezed out, the lemon is thrown away!
So, Nikki should open his eyes!
Time's Up.
JC.
David Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 17:49
And your "Damage Control Mode" button would make him shut his mouth, resign and hope that everyone forgets about his story, right? You only suggest this so he could safeguard his career, right? Oh what a kind heart you are Mr.Cauchi. I'm impressed by your care towards Nikki. You, unlike others, have no "ulterior agenda" when you speak such words. You surely care about Nikki, and you would like him to resign and shut his mouth for his own sake and not because you know the PN is literally at the cliff's edge. Il-garra gejja u sejra, fl-ahhar tinkiser... u donnhu li l-garra tal-PN u ta' PBO waslet fl-ahhar ta' zmienha!
Valerio Zahra
Aug 23rd 2010, 15:53
That's what PBO wants at the moment, All focus on Mr.Dimech. WHAT ABOUT HIS ALLEGED ABUSE AT LADY DI...............................................??????? Is it already forgotten? are any actions going to be assigned by the part about this??? did he not dishonoured the party rules?? And how come the police didn't take action about what Ms.Sandra Camilleri filed at the Police headquarters. Can things can be more clear then they are?? Please would you mind if some of you open your eyes and start see things as they are, would you mind if some of you level up your ear volume and start listnening to everyone and not just a corrupt party???
L. Azzopardi
Aug 23rd 2010, 15:28
All this sleaze and infighting within the PN? and in such a stronghold like Sliema? How sweet and ironic!!
MBorg
Aug 23rd 2010, 15:12
@ all
I do not know Nikki Dimech but I am sure most of you, if not all ,would have acted in the same way if you felt that you were going to die. Maybe not all of you know that is how you feel when you cannot breathe, not a very nice feeling.
Give him a chance nothing has been proved, no one can pronounce him guilty.Why do we have to believe a man who had just lost his work with the council and not the mayor?
Freda Busuttil
Aug 23rd 2010, 14:50
What's happening to our dear Malta! Is it the eighties? I cannot make heads or tails of this situation! Whom am I to believe? Confused and confused and more of the same!
Andrew Paris
Aug 23rd 2010, 14:48
Please! Don't tell me no other PN has solicited a bribe during a tender process.
All Politians do it here in Malta and in every other country in the world.
When you vote for a person, who must vote on who you think will be less of a crook.
Joseph Cauchi
Aug 23rd 2010, 15:27
What twisted reasoning is this, Mr. Paris!
I believe you should refrain from sending such comments as they do not bode you well!
God forbid if we should consider our politicians on the lines you have just quoted. It’s a shame even just to think about it!
JC.
parisphilip@hotmail.com
Aug 23rd 2010, 16:22
@Joseph Cauchi
with due respect and no intention of insult, please open your eyes.
Freda Busuttil
Aug 23rd 2010, 14:47
What's happening to our dear Malta? Is it the eighties? Confused and confused and more of the same. I really cannot make heads or tails of this and other situations!
a. pace
Aug 23rd 2010, 14:04
ANOTHER WORD FOR MALTESE POLITICS........ HAWWADDNI HA NIFMEK.
Nikki Dimech
Aug 23rd 2010, 13:55
Dear all
I appreciate and deeply thank those residents who supported me. A message to all those who tried to ridicule me; I hope you will never pass for one hour what I have been through. Pointing fingers is easy, I am an easy catch and obviously some think they are going to destroy me and if the PN states they didnt approach me for the GE, then the people who told me are crazy. I have been through worse things in life and to all those who think I dont want to lose power, I think you dont know me well. I never let anyone call me Mayor, I was and am a normal person and help a lot of people in need. Ff the PN wants me out, then be it but I will not let down the 1800 people who voted for me and I will strive to remain an Independent Mayor and will have no one on my shoulder guiding me into a dead end. I just ask any person who I ever defrauded to publish something and as my profession has been a success - I dont need the commission to live.I thank you all
Joseph Cauchi
Aug 23rd 2010, 14:41
@ Dear Nikki,
I would like very much to believe you; but sincerely kindly tell us if you did sign that statement to the police, admitting soliciting for a commission/kick-back from the Contracts’ Manager, yes or no, irrespective of whether coerced or not by the police?
Awaiting your reply.
JC.
Theresa Ablea
Aug 23rd 2010, 14:58
I have followed and read all the articles concerning your mishap, which I find very vile and cheeky from the party's end. I do not know you personally, but I have met many people who have had the opportunity to meet you for a reason or for another and I only heard words of praise for the charisma you convey and for your kind attitude with whoever is in need, be it a supporter of whatever party. Not one person I spoke to has condemned you or believed the futile accusations, especially those who happen to know Mr Buhagiar!!
Nikki, whatever the outcome of this ordeal, rest assured that it is the party who has been stupid enough to lose such a valid person...your misfortune is that probably you are too good.
A cremona
Aug 23rd 2010, 15:05
Dear Nikki,
I am sorry to say I have voted for you in the last election within our locality. I did so only because you were recommended by an MP I usually give my vote to. The more I read what you say, the more I believe that you should resign from your post as Mayor of Sliema.
I think your actions have now cause enough trouble in our locality and any one else would have resigned in this situation until innocence is proven. Your actions simply show a power hungry person.
Miriam Taliana
Aug 23rd 2010, 15:12
Dear Nikki,
You don't need the party...I believe you because I think a person hungry for power would "obey" the party and not stick up for his rights and beliefs...a person hungry for power would not go against the party but succumb to whatever dirty things he is asked to do...
Your speaking up might harm you politically as the party must be frustrated that you are washing their dirty laundry in public, but as a man it does you honour that you have had the courage to speak up...
One advice...can't you remain independant?? and therefore will be free to direct the council without being hindered from behind the scene orders!!! Good luck
Valerio Zahra
Aug 23rd 2010, 15:23
Nikki,
Jiena haga wahda biss kull mhu' ha nghidlek, "Thalli l'hadd min jirkiblek mniehrek" dan il-partit tant kemm hu korott li persuna onesta u ta kwalita bhalek ma felhuwhiex fil-partit biex iktar juru kemm vera dan il-partit huwa kollu kemm hu korott. Mela ghallura aqbad u ghati ir-rezenja mil-partit, u kompli bhala sindku indipendenti. Tlajt inti sindku ic-centru ta tas-sliema rega beda jiehu ir-ruh, toroq u bankini f st'henry, u st.helen apparti dawk li hemm iktar pjanati. Int l'unika Sindku li rnexxilek tikoopera mal-kunsilliera tal-PL u habba dan iktar iktar riedu jhagruk tal-partit tieghek. semmuli min sindku ghamel dan, ghax hlief mohhom fil-"Front" ma jkunx.
Nikki taqtax qalbek, igiled ghad-drittijiet tieghek.
VZ
David Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 15:38
@ A Cremona
"I did so only because you were recommended by an MP I usually give my vote to"
Prosit ghalik! Giving your vote on someone else's recommendation shows what kind of person you are.
"Your actions simply show a power hungry person."
And what about Paul Borg Olivier's actions?
@ Nikki Dimech
Do not resign. Do not give up. Do not bow.
The best defence is counter-attack. Get yourself a good lawyer and take PBO, the police and PN to court.
Take back what is rightfully yours - your reputation.
Simon Borg
Aug 24th 2010, 10:00
Dear Nikki,
I totally agree with you but you are tasting your own medicine. Issa taf x'inhu l-veru PN, haruf minn barra u lupu minn gewwa. Jien imgarrab ukoll. Ma nistax nghidlek aktar minn hawn imma ma ndumx ma niltaqgha mieghek u nfakkrek ahjar kemm hadtha kontra min ipprova jiftahlek ghajnejk fil-kampanja elettorali. Pero jien xorta behind you u l-verzjoni tieghek emmint.
J. Borg
Aug 23rd 2010, 13:46
personally, I am more concerned about how the senior police officers have allegedly gone about doing their "duties" to the nation.
from my own experiences, I am not surprised (but nonetheless very worried) about how Mr.Dimech described being coersed in the hands of the officers who's motto is "Lord guide us"!
P Micallef
Aug 23rd 2010, 13:21
Another quote from yesterday's interview with Dimech:-
"The inspector told me my only option was to safeguard my career as an auditor by keeping the case as quiet as possible. He said all I had to do was admit the charges and resign – and this could all be done without people knowing what happened, the same way as had happened with other councillors. Either that, or he would arraign me in front of all the press.”
This is pure blackmail unless the Police Inspector who carried out the interrogation denies Dimech’s claims. Anything less would be admission of guilt by the Police. And while on the subject, perhaps the Police would inform the public about who where the “other councillors” who admitted charges and resigned. And what were these charges? Since the Police themselves raised these issues they have the duty to come clean. The Minister of the Interior carries a lot of responsibility for the Police's (mis) behaviour it it runs out that Dimech’s statements are true.
P Micallef
Aug 23rd 2010, 13:19
In yesterday’s Sunday Times interview with Dimech it was reported:-
Quote: (a) “ he only made the admission because he had been through “mental ¬torture”. (b) “he was forced by police to make a false statement after being told his political career was over.” (c)“The police inspector told me that if I didn’t admit to the false allegation he would make a show of me in front of the press,” (d) “he was told he was under arrest and that his political career was over”.
This is psychological torture by the Police. As a result Dimech’s statement was taken under duress and is therefore null and void. If this had happened in the 70s or 80s most of the bloggers would have taken the side of Dimech and accused the police of torture. How times change.
Mark Piscopo
Aug 23rd 2010, 13:15
Misna naqlaw lmulta ta 400 million euros tal POWERSTATION. Xnaghmlu kieku kif nitkissru bhala pajjiz.!!
Joseph Cauchi
Aug 23rd 2010, 13:13
The more time Nikki Dimech delays his departure, the more harm he will do to his cause!
Nikki, one word of advice and keep this in mind:
Find a VERY GOOD LAWYER, because you definitely need it!
And stop shooting at your own feet!
“Fools rush in …”
JC.
R Cassar
Aug 23rd 2010, 14:39
Why should he depart when he has not been charged, tried etc... People in same positions and worse within the party have a list of ongoing proven actions and yet nobody asks then to resign...
He is not shooting at his own feet, he is just doing something others never have the guts to do or say...i.e. not bow his head to the party if he does not agree with something and speaking the truth about the way he has been treated...
I assume your "Fools rush in" is referred to the party and people like yourself who rushed to conclusions....
wayne criggs
Aug 23rd 2010, 12:43
Many PN die hards have realised that their party is falling into pieces. There is no more coordination, not even a PN mayor is loyal towards his own party. The comments submitted below by Dr Francis Saliba and Co. confirms the bad situation PN is finding itself in. I'm not a PL supporter, but any person who has no bias would recognise what a pitiful party PN has become.
Carmel Garcia
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:56
Do not resign what ever par idejn sodi says. Fight till the end.
michael seychell
Aug 23rd 2010, 14:02
Your advice is easier said than done.
If Nicky was my son I would advise him to do what he feels is right for him, after considering all positive and negative effect/s his decision/s may have, not only on his political career which has just started, but more so in his professional and private life.
That is what I did in 1977 when I was forced to resign from Metal Workers' Section Secretary of the GWU - at a time when violence and corruption by the Labour Movement started to raise its head untill the Movement lost all controll of the situation.
Michael Seychell
Tal-Pieta
Joseph Cauchi
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:51
“Quem deus vult perdere, dementat prius”
Nikki, don’t waste more time please!
It’s time to do the honourable thing for all Sliema residents!
Just Go, Go, Go …
JC.
R Cassar
Aug 23rd 2010, 13:01
Why you say "do an honourable thing" I don't understand, as so far he has neither been charged, tried or found guilty of anything...spiccajna sew if everybody comes to conclusions based on accusations...
Notwithstanding, that PBO threatened a councillor, and of this we have seen proof....is he honourable???
Maria Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:50
I voted for Nikki Dimech and thought he would bring a fresh start to Sliema ... now he disappointed me big time and I insist that he resigns immediately!
R Cassar
Aug 23rd 2010, 12:28
Just one thing...the council is not just Nikki Dimech, but 11 people working together...Nikki alone can't take decisions because whatever is done has to be approved by ALL or the majority...so if you are disappointed, it is the whole team that is disappointing you
Charles Taliana
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:49
There is a lesson here, NEVER SIGN WHAT OTHERS WROTE FOR YOU it could be the toll of death. Even if it were the Commmissioner of police who wrote it because it is always used as evidence against you in court or otherwise. So my advice is to get a very, very good lawyer to get out of this. I know from experience because I nearly lost a job for agreeing to sign statment, but when I changed my mind not to sign it, the person quickly made quite a few amendments to which he could not get out of and I still retained my job.
David Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:20
@ Nikki Dimech
In one of your interviews you said that one of your mistakes is that you trust too easily in people.
It seems like you never learn from your mistakes too.
Why would you resign if Dr.Gonzi says so? I think his nice words and excellent skills as an orator have bedazzled you - as they did to many others, myself included.
You should not resign - even if Dr.Gonzi says so. Don't do the mistake to sanctify the man... he's part of the PBO clan anyway!
C .Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:44
@ Nikki
Don't give up! Keep on fighting! All PBO wants is to get you out of the way to contest on your district!
John Vella
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:07
A witchhunt if there ever was one. What about the 4.1 billion euros and counting of national debt? Aren't the Police Force's efforts better spent finding out how these funds were spent and in whose pockets they ended up? What does our nation have to show for having spent these funds and privatized all possible government businesses?
Dani.Mangion
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:04
Could anybody tell me what is happening between PN and Mr Dimech?
Mr Dimech has addmited to the police that he accepted a bribe, and than he says that it was a panic attack. He was kicked out from the PN and this was a smart move from the Party. Then PN general secretary, Paul Borg Olivier, decides that Mr. Dimech must also be kicked out of the post of a mayor and from the council. Mr. Dimech than says that he will not resign if the order does not come from Lawrence Gonzi. Moreover he accuses PBO of framing him up!
Than the approval of his dismissal by the PN leader was issued. Still Mr. Dimech refuses to resign because Gonzi doesn't know his side of the story.
Is this a classic scenario where the king doesn't want to hand over his crown, even though he lost the battle?
Mr. Dimech it's time to go!
Claire Cassar
Aug 23rd 2010, 10:32
Interesting .. so Labour (which speaks ad nausea about eliminating abuses) is now defending Nikki Dimech! How ironic that the PN kicked him (a PN Mayor) out and Labour's Muscat is defending him!
Nikki Dimech do the honourable thing an call it a day ... you erred, you admitted in writing and your only destination is OUT!
J.Pace
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:00
Admitting under panic stress, without lawyer, without inhaler is a thing, found guilty in a court is another, lets wait and see who is right, or if it is really a frame-up. Lets see if it is found to be a frame-up, who will be the first from the PN club to resign, if PBO, the person who is taking this personally, the person who asks other PN majors to vote against Mr.Dimech, the person who is trying to be elected from Sliema the next General election, to will resign.
And Dr.Gonzi, sending a letter asking a person to resign, come on, without even speaking with him personally, normally you do home vists when things like these happen.
Mr Dimech wait till there is a jury involved. This thing smells fishy from the start!
PL is doing the right thing to defend this guy, it is not guilty until proven.
It is better that the PN checks who was involved in the new power station contract! Because the EU and all the Maltese TAX payers are after the truth.
Victor Laiviera
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:17
Ms Cassar, where on earth did you get the bizarre notion that "Labour is now defending Nikki Dimech"?
Please enlighten us!
JOe VELLa
Aug 23rd 2010, 10:24
Sir,
I am amazed how quickly action has been taken, I assume if it is for the good of the Sliema residents and not for political mileage. It deserve applause and credit! Prosit!
However in our case after 3 years complaining in writing and delivering a petition, because a Disco in our area disturbing the peace till 4 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
What use is the Police code and Trading license of the right of peace to the neighbors in the vicinity of Rabat, Dingli, Attard, Zebbug and other locality as no apparent action is taken.
Are we finally going to get what is ours by right and by law, and justice will be seen to be done as quick as in this instance, the right of peace at night.
I am only asking, is it political mileage all this silence?
Or is it two weights and two measures.
joanne pace
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:53
The Prime Minister should look into all the Councils and Mayors affairs as I am pretty sure that three quarters of them especially in prime localities are corrupt and have taken commissions for tenders given, but there is only one scapegoat. Anyway what ever Paul Borg Oliver does, I doubt that PN will win the next election,too many bad things happening,no police enforcement and most people are well fed up.
Carmel Garcia
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:53
Par idejn sodi ma min hu ckejken. Sakemm ghadek prezunt innocenti Nikki tirrizenjax. Ma kellekx avukat mieghek waqt l-interogazzjoni. Taqtax qalbek is-sewwa jirbah zgur konna nghidu fl-imghoddi meta kien jiggverna il-partit laburista u hekk jerga jigri bil-kas tieghek jekk inti qed tghid il-verita'
Marisa Ellul
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:49
Mr. Dimech's admission that he asked for commission in his role as Sliema Mayor is simply unacceptable and that alone should have triggered his resignation without the need for the PN to dismiss him ... but now that he has it from the horse's mouth 'PN Ledaer approved mayor's dismissal' is enough for Nikki Dimech to resign ... Just go for God's sake...Sliema desrves a better Mayor than you - you messed it all up!
R Cassar
Aug 23rd 2010, 12:32
Just for your info...the "horse" did not speak, unless you know more than us readers that is...All we know is that Frank Psaila sent a letter to the Times...It is amazing how you believe articles and not others...what makes you distinguish between right or wrong?? Your intuiition??
M. Busuttil
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:46
Ara vera ta kaz ta two weights u two measures. Anke jekk is sindku ta Tas-Sliema huwa hati vera kaz li maz-zghir kulhadd jaf jehoda.
Nixtieq nistaqsi kif ma persuna ohra li ammettiet li nghatat commission fil-kaz tal-powerstation ma giex mghajjat mill-puluzija. Meta quddiem l-awditur generali qal li nesa kollox jew ma jiftakarx!!
Il-Huta min rasa tinten!!!!
N. Buckle
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:43
Asking for a kickback is definitely corruption, and if proved the P.N. is right in dismissing the Mayor. But, forcing the Mayor to employ a certain person without going through the correct procedures is also corruption and nobody is being held responsible for this part of corruption. After all, the reason for Minister Lawrence Gatt's resignation years ago was for the same reason that is employing somebody without going through proper procedures.
gcForte
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:41
Although Mr.Nikki Dimech was elected on behalf of the P.N., it was the Sliema citizens that voted for him, which I believe that there were non political voters who voted for him. My question is...The P.N. have all the rights to shove him out of the party, but can they ( the P.N.) interfere whether he resign or not from a Major or from the council ? Can he occupy an independent seat or join the other side ?
Pierre Abela
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:25
Yesterday in The Sunday Times Nikki Dimech said he will only resign if the PM told him so .... now he has it in black and white 'PN Leader approved Mayor's dismissal' .... SO MR. DIMECH HAS NO OTHER OPTION BUT TO QUIT AND GIVE SLIEMA A FRESH START
T Camilleri
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:41
Pierre Abela PN, the party where cloak and dagger affairs were always and are the order of the day
R Cassar
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:41
Pity that the PM is hiding behind a letter sent to the media...why does he not meet Mr Dimech?? What about the party statute...a person can't be dismissed by word of mouth, but by a vote which was not taken...The least they could do was at least do it in the correct way since they insists on "political correctness", especially since the dismissal is NOW due to Dimech's "political incorrectness"
You seem eager to see him resign...don't worry, I am sure he will please you as I don't think he needs to be part of such a party...
As for the stagnation in Sliema...it is certainly not because of the mayor alone...with or without the mayor, everyday works can go on...every councillor has his personal duties and many others fall under the duties of the secretaries...Perhaps some have been intentionally hindering the works...
Sarcastically I remember the same complaints and worse before Dimech became mayor...
D Borg
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:04
Mayor should resign once and for all. Sliema can't remain as it is without a council, there is so much to be done and things are getting worse since nikki dimech has been appointed as mayor. These past months have also led to total stagnation. All seems to show that the mayor is guilty, however, should he not, he would be seen in a much better light if he resigns!
Charles J. Buttigieg
Aug 23rd 2010, 08:56
Considering the circumstances surrounding the whole issue it would be foolhardy for a decent person to condemn or exonerate the Sliema Mayor.
It’s all about one person’s allegation that the Mayor asked for a commission. After admitting guilt to the police he is now claiming that he was unjustly forced to do so by the police.
This case will eventually be judged by our court of laws and possibly followed by an appeal if the Mayor is found guilty of sleaze. The Mayor may in the end prove to be innocent of charges and conduct unbecoming. If that ever happens will the PN admit its bad judgement and reinstate the young Mayor back to his positions within the PN?
D Borg
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:29
This is not the only case the Sliema mayor is allegedly invovled in. Newspapers have also mentioned the Fair lights tender and also other tenders and direct orders. It will be interesting to see the outcome of the of the IAID investigations on all cases the mayor is said to be involved in.
R Cassar
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:46
@ D Borg
Funnily enough, after all these weeks, or rather months, they still found nothing wrong in the fairylights tender...And unless you know more than us other readers, apart from the disgusting story of the Police re a statement made by an ex-council employee sacked by the whole council 6 months before for dishonesty, we don't know of any other investigations as you imply...Easy to hide behind a comment on the net and inflate stories!!!
For the record, Mr Dimech has not been tried or found guilty of anything - as yet they are just allegations...so at least you should wait for the outcome before firing judgement
Charles J. Buttigieg
Aug 23rd 2010, 10:07
All those involved in this issue are PN officials therefore irrespective of what turns out to be the truth the final outcome would prove sleaze within the PN. But that is not the point at issue here; the point is that the PN hierarchy are not giving a sporting chance to the Mayor.
PP Busuttil and the the ex prison warder were both accused by the police and they both claimed that they were victims of police frame-ups. Half of the population believed them while the other half castigated them. In the end they both proved their innocence and the rest is history. Would any reader wish to see that kind of miscarriage of justice again? I surely wouldn’t.
Dr Francis Saliba
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:55
This not a case of a mere "allegation" of bribery. It is a case of admitted bribery recorded in a police written admission. The usual subsequent withdrawal of that signed admission and the allegation of police brutality are routine practices. That backward step does not restore public confidence in the operations of the Local Council shaken by the signed admission. In the interest of restoring public confidence the mayor has no honourable course but to offer his resignation, now. That does not imply that he is guilty of anything.
Charles J. Buttigieg
Aug 23rd 2010, 14:10
With his statement admitting guilt the Mayer gave a lot of clout to the police even though that was one which superseded another signed statement which ran counter to it. The Mayor then made a public statement claiming that he was forced to sign that statement because of his medical condition. Logic tells me that if the second statement nullified the first, equally, the third statement should nullify the second or at least sheds enough reason to justify a public inquiry. We should all strive to see the real culprit\s brought to book however in the meantime the Mayor should have stepped down to allow justice take its course because public perception can’t be ignored. In the event that the Mayor is found innocent he should be reinstated in his Mayor’s position.
Dr Francis Saliba
Aug 23rd 2010, 08:55
One more retraction by the evasive mayor. He retouches his original declaration that he would only resign if Gonzi approves his dismissal. The latest version is that he will resign after Gonzi approves his dismissal but only after the Prime Minister hears his side of the story from his own lips!
gcForte
Aug 23rd 2010, 08:48
Dr. Gonzi...............Prosit............Kullhadd jaf juza il par idejn sodi maz zghir.
Alfred Camenzuli
Aug 25th 2010, 08:43
Naqbel mighek 100% Habib. GonziPN meta ha tibda tinvestiga il-hut il-KBIR?
H Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 08:42
It takes the PN Leader 24 hours to react to JPO's Private Member's Bill. It takes the PN Leader more than a week to inform us that he agrees with the Sliema Mayor's dismissal and only following yesterday's interview. Furthermore, it also takes PN a week to react to articles and information which have appeared in the press over 7 days ago and which raise serious doubts on the party administration's role in this matter. This official reaction from PN and its leader can hardly be considered timely let alone convincing!
Dr Francis Saliba
Aug 23rd 2010, 09:43
The official reaction by the PN was not belated. It came as soon as the Sliema mayor himself admitted that he had signed a statement to the police confessing that he had demanded a bribe. Any later retraction of a signed statement would be a routine occurrence that did nothing to eliminate the cloud of suspicion of corruption in a Local Council and obstructing its function. The offer and/or the demand of a resignation are not any premature proof of guilt anticipating the result of any prosecution in a court of law, if any.
H Caruana
Aug 23rd 2010, 11:00
Oh yes I forgot, the newly introduced fast track and ad hoc process of dimissing PN rappresentatives accompanied by PRs and all just to show how examplary and efficient the party is when dealing with the small and inconvenient fry and, hopefully, the electorate will be alienated from the more serious matters. You're right, PN's reaction was prompt indeed!