Debono denies he was given space - reacts to thesis comparisons
Franco Debono this morning reacted point by point to comments made on behalf of the PN yesterday by Francis Zammit Dimech on Bondi+, saying that rather than having been given space, his efforts and ideas were suffocated.
Dr Debono described Dr Zammit Dimech as a "very dear colleague and a good friend".
"I appreciate that Francis has conceded and acknowledged that during my first years in parliament, even as the youngest MP on the government side, I pushed for and campaigned for some of the most fundamental reforms in this legislature.
"That means one of two things, either the backbenchers have worked too hard, or some cabinet members have worked too little. What I have been pushing for is what others should have been doing, but did not."
This, Dr Debono said, was not about giving space to him, but about giving space to the reforms themselves and appointing the right people with the will, determination and knowledge to implement the reforms.
"A prime minister must ensure that important and urgent reforms get done by whoever he has entrusted, and whoever fails grossly must resign. The irony is that some of the most important suggestions for reforms are coming from the backbench. The same thing happened with the reform of primary health care where the reform ended up as a casualty instead of the minister."
A REFORMER, NOT A REBEL
Dr Debono said he did not consider himself as a rebel but rather, a reformer.
With regard to his participation in overseas delegations, a point mentioned by Dr Zammit Dimech, Dr Debono said people should not get the wrong impression, as, most probably, he was the government MP who had travelled least on parliamentary business. Possibly, Dr Zammit Dimech had been abroad on parliamentary business for many more times.
INHERITED VOTES
With regards to the comment by Dr Zammit Dimech that he should consult Louis Galea and Helen D'Amato because he had inherited some of their votes, Dr Debono said this was a completely new theory which he had never come across. By the same 'fallacious reasoning', therefore, he should also consult the other candidates from whom he had inherited votes. But in the previous two elections, none of Louis Galea, Helen D'Amato or Ninu Zammit had consulted him, even though they inherited hundreds of votes from him.
Dr Debono stressed that a big chunk of his votes came from disgruntled Nationalists and floaters, whom he had to convince to vote for the PN and for him, thus helping the PN to win the election.
He complained, however, that people who had failed to get elected, such as Louis Galea and Helen D'Amato, were given important posts, while those who were actually elected – Ninu Zammit and himself, were not.
At the time, Dr Debono said, hundreds of people had complained to him that their votes and their choice was not respected. Some people at the time had vented their anger at the prime minister. Dr Debono said he had actually stopped an initiative by a supporter who wanted to circulate a petition.
Dr Debono said that in the first months of the legislature he started realising how some Cabinet members were taking wrong decisions. Indeed, the government and the party were severely punished at the 2009 MEP elections where the PN lost by a landslide 35,000 votes.
Yet he had not voiced any dissent in public. He only started making comments in public when his efforts in private were ignored. This was what people who were criticising his methods needed to realise, he stressed.
"Even my abstention in parliament (in 2009) was ignored. At the time I had pressed for legal assistance to arrested people and had also called for respect for parliament and better environmental considerations for the people of the south. But the government only moved on the rights of arrested persons when the Opposition announced its own motion."
Reacting to a point made by Dr Zammit Dimech that he had contradicted himself on the day of the reshuffle, Dr Debono said he had first commented (on timesofmalta.com ) a few hours before the reshuffle and had not known that the reshuffle was imminent.
What he had said, in a diplomatic way, was that he was ready to support the prime minister - but not if he was held hostage or at ransom by the clique. Yet the reshuffle only served to prove his fears right, Dr Debono said. The PM had, however, taken his suggestion, made that morning, to remove the honoraria.
On party financing, Dr Debono said he had had the courage and determination to draft the law despite finding many obstacles. Then, the government presented to a Council of Europe committee (known as Greco) a draft prepared by Ugo Mifsud Bonnici. Dr Debono recalled how he had dissociated himself from the Mifsud Bonnici draft, which he said was 'botched' and had failed the Greco test. "I had warned them that he draft was inadequate and wuld fail the test," Dr Debono said. In fact I had already been working on a different draft, and Greco should have been kept informed that the draft sent to them was obsolete.
On the Committee for the Consolidation of Laws and the Administrative Code project which the committee had embarked upon, Dr Debono said that was his idea and should not be considered as someone giving him space.
"My ideas, energy and enthusiasm were being suffocated, it was only I who pushed them forward" he said.
RIFT FROM CABINET
He said that backbenchers' reactions should be considered in the context of the performance of the Cabinet itself. The honoraria issue clearly demonstrated how, from the beginning, a deep rift was created between Cabinet and the backbench since the Cabinet took the increase behind Parliament's back in clear breach of the basic rules of parliamentary autonomy. "This was a clear indication of a sentiment where the Cabinet deemed backbench support as an automatic and sacrosanct right which could allow it to ride roughshod over everyone," he said.
THESIS REACTION
Dr Debono also reacted to people who have been drawing contrasts between what he wrote in his thesis in 1999 and what he is doing now.
In his thesis, entitled 'The Constitutional Implications of Party Organisation and Party Finance', Dr Debono had written: "Members of Parliament of the party in office should be extremely reluctant to vote against the government, or even to hold individual ministers to account, if that would embarrass it."
Dr Debono said that the fact that he had written his thesis on political parties and party financing showed his deep interest in politics.
"Politics is part of me and everyone can appreciate how hard it is for me to take the stand I am taking for the good of democracy. I tried to push for a new way of doing politics, a law on political parties and party financing. I was, I am, seeking a shift from political parties. I would like to see healthier state institutions through extensive constitutional reforms ,a new political culture, a stronger parliament and more efficient law courts."
He said he had wished to contribute more, even as a PN candidate for 10 years, but others were given the space which he wasn't, such as Tonio Fenech when he too was a candidate. Nonetheless, during that time he had been able to focus on his profession and build his legal office.
SOLUTION
Asked if there was a solution to the current situation, Dr Debono said he had not contacted the prime minister for the past two weeks, but he again confirmed that there had been contacts between the PN and himself.
He said he was relieved to be able to speak in public about long-standing issues which he had sought to reform silently.
His position remained, he said, that the prime minister or the clique that was responsible for what had happened, must resign.
See Dr Zammit Dimech's comments at
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Allan Gatt
Jan 21st, 17:03
Dan Franco Debono huwa rivelazzjoni u ispirazzjoni kontinwa.
Victor Vella
Jan 21st, 09:25
There is only one honorable way for Franco Debono. Next Thursday he has to go to Parliament and explicitly tell his evil oligarchy of elites Why he is going to vote against the Regime and explicitly explains the pains that this nation is passing through. His Gonzi regime has nothing tangible to argue about except mentioning stupid things of any value as Zammit Dimech mentioned things that do not make any sense expect trying to make Franco Debono as the problem of the evil elites that Gonzi is endowed with. Franco Debono is a really the voice of the people. If next Thursday Franco Debono backs down he will lose all the credibility and his good work that he has already done.. He will become part of that evil oligarchy and be part of the corrupted, arrogant, incompetent, and unaccountable Regime that Gonzi succeeded in finding the comfort zone. Those supporting the Gonzi PN regime do not want to leave their niche and want to continue to keep their bottoms sealed with that seat enjoying the rapture they have done to these people while enjoying the monies they stole from the people`s coffers to achieve their evil ends.
M. Grech
Jan 20th, 22:25
We keep reading and writing here and there about this man, what is happening and what he should or should not do. I am sure that he must have calculated all this. I do not think that none of us, nor those who have some particular reason one way or the other, will actually make him change plans. Whatever happens next week, it may well not be the end of his political carreer, afterall. Who knows?
Mr Emanuel Farrugia
Jan 20th, 22:13
Dr Debono described Dr Zammit Dimech as a "very dear colleague and a good friend".
"I appreciate that Francis has conceded and acknowledged that during my first years in parliament, even as the youngest MP on the government side, I pushed for and campaigned for some of the most fundamental reforms in this legislature.
"That means one of two things, either the backbenchers have worked too hard, or some cabinet members have worked too little. What I have been pushing for is what others should have been doing, but did not."
This, Dr Debono said, was not about giving space to him, but about giving space to the reforms themselves and appointing the right people with the will, determination and knowledge to implement the reforms.
Well done Franco, you are a professional politician. You have a very good knowledge and determination to help out the maltese society.
Emanuel Farrugia former Executive Secretary Mtarfa Local Council
Francesca Abela
Jan 20th, 21:31
How boring Franco Debono is, he is old hat, repeating the same old words all the time like a broken record. He is clearly inconsistent and egocentric fullstop. He is enjoying his stint in the limelight and is making the most of it playing to the gallery. Franco Debono is only interested in his self glorification! Sure Gonzi has his faults, who doesn't? We are all human after all, not supermen like Franco thinks himself to be - What goes around, comes around!
Joe Portelli
Jan 20th, 23:11
Sounds a bit strong , but absolutley the right level really. There is much to do for those that want to be polititions and self is not a priority. No is perfect neither PL nor PN and certainly their leaders are not the only people on the island that can lead these parties - so FD's behaviour is dissapointing and a great shame - not quite the mentor young politicians embarking on a long term career would want to emulate !
Vince Piscopo
Jan 21st, 05:49
Be realistic. Gonzi created this whole drift if he had given due considerations of what Franco and other PN-leaning exponents had been suggesting repeatedly. All of a sudden in the loom of a possible election everything is done to please disgruntled voters with one disgusting u-turn of riscinding honoraria with however no guarantee given of repaying back what was already taken or otherwise re-taking it back should ALLA HARES QATT PN be re-elected!
Yes I agree with what goes around comes around and thats why this time Labour it is.
Robert Calafato
Jan 20th, 21:22
In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock.
Thomas Jefferson
Joe Portelli
Jan 20th, 20:51
We inherited a system that came down from the previous generations.
Our children will inherit this system.
The question FD and all MPs is a moral one, not "what's in it for me?" but " what is in it for tomorrows children?" that's life - we cant change the air we breath, but we can improve it or poison it , the next generation will grow into any environment prepared by others and not themselves.
Stop the selfish and instant gratification - that is destroying many around the world and not just here.
Jonaphin Spiteri
Jan 20th, 20:22
I stand up by Franco in all that he is doing. It takes more than courage to do what he is doing and don't tell me he is doing it because he is disillusioned at the ministerial re-shuffle. I believe he is a man of principle, a man who acknowledges that a breath of fresh air is needed for this country.
For instance I do not agree with the heavy fuel power station due to the environmental implications, and I am sure many of you are of my same opinion, but who opposed in parlament except for the opposition (it still went through since majority rules). Many have acknowledged that the reforms Dr. Debono is proposing are valuable and need to be considered but why did he need to arrive at this political suicide to gain attention? I believe we need a more transparent government, one who is really intent on serving the electorate.
Mr Joseph Carmel Chetcuti
Jan 20th, 19:58
Well, is the Prime Minister a culprit or is he a victm of the clique? Is Debono now saying that he would have confidence in the government if others (not the Prime Minister) resigned? Whatever the outcome next week, the PN is damaged and rebranding is unlikely to work. The country has had enough of GonziPN and for that matter any other PN. If Franco does not carry out what he has long promised, all would have been in vain - except of course the enormous damage he inflicted on the PN.
Alfred Falzon
Jan 20th, 19:57
Dr Franco Debono, MP, states in no uncertain terms that "the Prime Minister or the clique that was responsible for what had happened must resign".
In all probability, Prime Minister Dr Lawrence Gonzi is not at fault in the untimely mess that ensued following the switch to "Arriva" and the poor state of our prisons, which some allege have been transformed into "opium dens"!
So it's possible that the call for the Prime Minister's resignation would have to be dropped since such serious accusations could automatically involve only those who, for some reason or other, failed to reach expectations.
If that is the case, and many are those who are backing Dr Franco Debono in his stance, then it's not Dr Lawrence Gonzi who should resign but the "clique" that was responsible for what had happened"!
By so doing, they would be relieving their Party of a burden and loyally serving the Nation by bowing out gracefully, thus paving the way for a stable Government up to the end of its term to the satisfaction of all those who would like to see a definite end to this instability that is causing so much concern to all and sundry.
In other democratic countries this is always possible through voluntary resignations or by switching coalitions not necessarily allegiance.
Alfred A. Falzon
John Debono
Jan 20th, 19:35
u issa ieqaf iz zejjed kollu zejjed tal pl jghidulek kompli sejjer ek,,FRANCO mela sawwat lil nazzjonalisti mhux hekk trid.
Joe Portelli
Jan 20th, 19:35
He who stands up and fight is a great man, but he who walks away from a fight is a greater man and ensures he lives again without loss of power.
There is no doubt to Dr Debono's beliefs, just as one can say there is no smoke without a fire - Failing to persuade the gang one belongs in, one can try new tactics , in this case not fighting but sweet persuasion, or leave the gang and joing another, in this case a little too late as the other gang dont want independant thinkers.
Simply issue a speech in which you declare banking for the Government that you are a member of but without changing your views that reform is needed, and do it soon - before the PN calls an election instead of facing a no confidence vote and cheat you of your power and at present the sympathy votes will re elect the same government for many a good reason - and someone will be in limbo and history. (hope not ofcourse - you are an asset for politics but a liability for a party).
Joe Vella
Jan 20th, 19:30
Franco, again you show signs of illogical behaviour.
I agree with many of your points about the political reform.
I don't agree with you definately on the oligarchy..... on the clique... you're not mentioning people you are just mentionign clique... mention names so people will know....
Again I stress... Dr Muscat alone will be a good leader.... Dr Muscat with the CLIQUE around him will be the same as KMB and Dr Sant.
Michael Gatt
Jan 20th, 19:17
Well done Franco keep it up
Joseph Brincat
Jan 20th, 19:08
IS THERE ANY CHANCE THURSDAY THE 26 ,
WILL BE A PUBLIC HOLIDAY ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?
I WILL APPRECIATE IT ...... DO YOU ? ? ? ? ?
carmel callus
Jan 20th, 19:21
Brincat veru qallajt lil kulhadd, kemm int negattiv. Moħħok biss x'se takkwista.
m. borg (slm)
Jan 20th, 18:41
With regards Franco and his thesis, people have had change of heart and ideas that they once believed in. People have changed religion, have changed political parties and even changed partners so what is so darn big about Franco changing the ideas he had in 1999.
I would like to ask a question to gonzipn apologists, did those who wanted to get rid of Hitler and tried three asassination attempts, to be considered as traitors to the Nazi party? (Not making comparisons mind you only driving a point).
Let's not forget that Martin Luther went against the catholic church and today he has been acknowledged as having done nothing wrong.
raymond scicluna
Jan 20th, 18:30
Next thursday will be his D Day. He led himself to an alley. He has a hobson's choice, whatever, he will do:vote in favour, absteen or against, he will have half the population against. Ma rridx inkun sufa f siequ. Thanks God
Anthony Agius
Jan 20th, 19:11
Franco Debono contest the 11th District and you have 2 votes from our household. We have had enough of being taken for a ride by rude, arrogant and useless politicans.
Alfred Falzon
Jan 20th, 19:11
@ raymond scicluna
Sweeping statements are to be avoided in a situation that is still unfolding!
You speak of "half the population" rallying against Dr Franco Debono on his "D-Day".
Dr Debono is still very much saddened and deeply disturbed by the shabby treatment he received by some (not all) of his Parliamentary colleagues and Party diehards, but he is likewise heartened by the moral support he is receiving from thousands of well-wishers!
The truth is that we wish also well our Prime Minister Dr Lawrence Gonzi, for one must acknowledge that, apart some failures (and to err is human), he did succeed in garnering a few feathers in his cap, regardless of the trying times we are experiencing; so a positive outcome to this saga is all that we are hoping for.
One wish, perhaps shared with more than "half the population": Dr Lawrence Gonzi to remain Prime Minister till the end of his mandate and Dr Franco Debono back in the PN fold intent upon achieving his goal with the help of all Malta's men and women of good will!
And good luck to the better party/coalition come next elections!
Alfred A. Falzon
Alfred Cassar
Jan 20th, 20:25
Mr Falzon, that's why we want him to vote for the Government and continue to make his valid points, because yes they are valid, but his actions to bring down the government are not correct. If he really wants these ideas to go forward then he must continue pushing them on the government's side, otherwise all his ideas will be lost
DR EMMANUEL BEZZINA,MA,MAG.JUR.[EU Law],LL.D.,
Jan 20th, 18:18
Ha..ha..THERE BLOW OUR SO-CALLED REPRESENTATIVES, stripping naked before us and telling us simultaneously that they are fully clothed: HUMBUG...............POWER TO WE THE PEOPLE.
Joe Busuttil
Jan 20th, 21:14
Power to US (not WE) the people, Dr Emmy.
Andrea Giallombardo
Jan 20th, 17:57
Political drama at its best..
Henry S Pace
Jan 20th, 17:56
'"Politics is part of me and everyone can appreciate how hard it is for me to take the stand I am taking the good of democracy. ' Dr Franco Debono.
Who knows by next Thursday your Politics would be over and you will only be seen at the Lawcourts.
David Bezzina
Jan 20th, 19:32
FRANCO DEBONO WAS HUMBLE ENOUGH TO SAY THAT HE CARED LESS ABOUT HIS POLITICAL CAREER IN ORDER FOR HIS MESSAGE TO COME ACROSS.
IN THE END,IT IS NOT ABOUT POLITICAL CAREERS,BUT DOING THE RIGHT THING.
FRANCO DEBONO SACRIFICED HIS POLITICAL CAREER FOR WHAT HE BELIEVES IS RIGHT AND THAT IS ENOUGH REASON FOR ME THAT HE HAS BEEN GENUINE IN HIS STATEMENTS.
AFTER ALL,SOME PEOPLE ARE COMFORTABLE ENOUGH SITTING THERE AND DO NOTHING.FRANCO DEBONO DEFINETELY MERITED HIS PLACE IN PARLIAMENT.HE WORKED HARDER THAN SOME MINISTERS.
D Cutajar
Jan 20th, 17:49
I can't understand why people are saying that FD has committed political suicide!!! In my opinion he is the only real politican forming part of the PN group . . . The others are just overpowered business men whom only look to safeguard their own interests!!!!
Prosit PN your corrupt game went on for 25 years, NOW STEP ASIDE AND LET THE GROWNUPS SOLVE YOUR WRONG DOINGS!!!!
Thank you Dr.FD!!!!
E. Azzopardi
Jan 20th, 17:36
The colleagues of Dr. Debono should know better that go on TV and talk about him and sometimes in negative ways. The PEOPLE do not give a hoot from where he inherited the votes. The PEOPLE expect the government to solve this self inflicted problem so that we can go on with our normal life, and not hear all say all these silly things!!! So here it is: The country does not need an election ( which even the opposition knows very well) and the country needs this government to last till the end at this very delicate moment. Therefore, if the PN is incapable of solving this problem the ONLY solution is for the PM to resign and somebody else comes in instead. Dr. Debono said he will back anybody else and therefore we can go on as before. If this is not acted upon and the Labour Party wins the election, many Nationalists will never never forgive the PN. This would have been done for the PEOPLE and the COUNTRY. We hear this so often from politicians. Now prove it.
Joseph M. Grech.
Jan 20th, 18:19
"many Nationalists will never never forgive the PN"
Mr Azzopardi I have one answer for that - SPEAK FOR YOURSELF and not the many. Those nationalists I come in contact with who voted for Franco including my family feel very, very, very hurt and consider it their/our mistake for having voted him in. We promised him our vote when he came home visiting because he looked reasonable but now we all feel let down and regret what we did and feel as accomplices if the PN is voted early out of government. It seems we have made a big mistake in trying to vote new blood in. After all, Louis, Ninu and Helen all went through the proof of fire in the 70's and 80's. Their loyalty was a proven fact. At present we are all happy with the OVERALL performance of this government when compared to the rest of the world. OK it's far from perfect but it's not that bad. My past experience says that nobody is and a change of government will not bring perfection, but you can always choose the least of two evils. The PL (ex MLP) who are forwarding the same people as before have been tried and tested in the past and will surely not bring the utopia Franco is dreaming of.
fred fellon
Jan 20th, 17:02
Dr Debono is not obliged to either Louis Galea or Helen D Amato, to the contrary Dr Debono is only obliged to his constituants to expose the CORRUPTION and LACKADAISICAL attitude of the PN administration
Joseph Cini
Jan 20th, 17:40
WHETHER HE IS OBLIGED TO LOUIS OR HELEN DOES NOT MATTER. WHAT MATTERS IS THAt HE HAS TO BE LOYAL TO THE PARTY AS WELL. THIS IS NOT THE WAY THAT THIS ISSUE SHOULD BE HANDLED AND EVERYONE KNOWS. THAT DO YOU THINK?
M Borg
Jan 20th, 18:19
Forget Louis Galea and Helen D'Amato, Franco Debono is " only obliged " to work for the good of the party he represents, in this case the NP.
He was ellected by NP supporters who surely did not vote for him to give him the chance to bring down the government.
He has no right and he was never given the right by anybody to do this.
jane galea
Jan 20th, 17:00
Franco huwa Mohammed Bouazizi ta Malta taghna ghax ghal kemm jaghmel x'jaghmel mhux se jehlisa min taht idejn in-nazjonalisti l-affarijiet li qed jippropona huwa huma affarijiet tajbin hafna u fihom sens anke cittadin bla skola jifhemhom ma hemmx dubju li jwettaqhom il-gvern futur bla dubju GVERN LABURISTA
Alan Xuereb
Jan 20th, 19:23
Sinjura Galea,
Lesta li jkollok lill-Franco debono fil jew mal partit tieghek? Bla dubju, zgur li Le, anke jekk ghal gid tal pajjiz u tal hsara ghall partit laburista.
raymond scicluna
Jan 20th, 19:50
Proset sur Xuereb. Il lejber l ewwel ikisser lil kandidati laburisti vedi John Dalli fuq l iskandlu tal vjaggi etc, Jesmond Mugliett fuq il bridge ta Regional Road, JPO fuq l iskandlu tal Mistra u issa Debono u mbad il bravi ex nazzjonalisti jmorru jibku u jgergru ghax Gonzi hallijom bla ministeri!!mhux ovvja l ewwel urew li jridu jakkwistaw personalment u mbad jippretendu li Gonzi ser jaghmilom ministri!!Grazzi Super one talli ftahtlu mohhu lil Gonzi u ibqa lqahhom go hwejgek ghax il PN m ghandomx bzonnom nies bhal dawn.
M Saliba
Jan 20th, 16:56
Andrea: Unhappy is the land that breeds no hero.
Galileo: No, Andrea: Unhappy is the land that needs a hero.
Bertolt Brecht, Life of Galileo (1938)
pat muscat
Jan 20th, 18:05
F' Malta ghandna il-hero GonziPN; kisser partit u kisser lil Malta.
J Busuttil
Jan 20th, 18:36
@ Pat Muscat
If you are going to keep on watching One TV there is no cure for you in seeing the real facts.
Alfred Attard
Jan 20th, 16:37
"Politics is part of me and everyone can appreciate how hard it is for me to take the stand I am taking for the good of democracy. I tried to push for a new way of doing politics ". However, unfortunately the stand he is taking will be the begining of the end of his political career. In the eventuality of the fall of government, Franco will only be remembered for his lack of support to the governing party with whom he was elected in parliament.
Carmel Cilia
Jan 20th, 17:20
Dr. Debono would be remembered for the reforms he wanted to introduced in a country which still lingers at least 50 years from true politically democratic countries. Dr. Debono could not work in a party whose only interest is to favour those in the inner circle of the party. Even today in this moment in time we have one of the worst ministers ever to be in cabinet preparing the way for his children as if Malta was still considered as part of an empire to be given away and sold. The moment of truth is approaching, maybe the new generations to be born would really be BORN FREE.
Neville Debattista
Jan 20th, 16:25
@Paul Portelli. They feel betrayed because they never expected in a hundred years that he would thrust the dagger in the back of the nationalist cabinet which cabinet he was supposed to work with and honour. Franco is an egocentric. Have no doubt about it. Gonzi and his administration like every human entity on this world may have its wrong doings, I admit. But you can put your mind at rest that Franco rebelled against the Prime Minister not because of the hundred and one reasons he may be giving. Not at all. You should have realized by now that the only reason behind all this warring is the fact that the man feels offended because he never got an important post . That is the only truth.
Mario Grima
Jan 20th, 16:21
"That means one of two things, either the backbenchers have worked too hard, or some cabinet members have worked too little. What I have been pushing for is what others should have been doing, but did not."
The answer to this question was given by Dr. Gonzi himself when he disclosed to the ex American Ambassador, Mrs. Bordonaro that he found it difficult to have a decent team given that the cabinet lacked in political acumen. The cabinet could not do more for the simple reason that they did not know any better.
I would add that the cabinet not only have limited political resources but they have shamed the meaning of democracy and political correctness. Their obsession to keep the power seat have meant riding roughshod on whoever does not form part of the clique which is dictating matters to Gonzi. And he calls himself a leader when he cannot even control the majority of his cabinet let alone the country which has been turned into a shambles.
Fran Abela
Jan 20th, 16:07
Mr. Tyrell - I understand you are not a citizen of Malta but only come to Malta every so often as you live in Gozo.
Please refrain from passing insulting comments towards our present government as you after all are insulting the majority of the Maltese. There are issues that I do not agree with concerning your present government in Ireland but being polite I do not meddle in other countries' political issues. I would ask you to kindly refrain from giving us your continuous 'advice'. We are quite capable of judging our government's, be they PN or PL for ourselves and this will no doubt be reflected in the forthcoming elections.
Mr Andrew Camilleri
Jan 20th, 17:34
Correction, Ms Abela: the majority of Maltese did not vote for Dr. Gonzi - only a relative majority of those who bothered to vote in the last election - which is roughly about 20% of the Maltese.
Mr Joseph Carmel Chetcuti
Jan 20th, 20:00
Is Francis suggesting that only Maltese citizens enjoy freedom of speech in Malta? What a narrow minded person!
John J Borg
Jan 20th, 15:53
how about this quote by OTTO VON BISMARK
People never lie so much as after a hunt, during a war or before an election.........
Alex Falzon
Jan 20th, 15:51
The PN still have the credentials to win the coming elections
Mario Grima
Jan 20th, 16:23
Of course, dream on!!!
M. Bezzina
Jan 20th, 16:53
Fuq liema kriterji???Fuq per ez: Kontijiet gholjin???Fuq il mater Dei??? Fuq l arriva???Semmi!!!Kollox hazin iwa kollox hazin kif qallek FD!!!
Joseph Brincat
Jan 20th, 17:20
Alex Falzon.
Have you heard the beaties sang > HELP <
Joseph Cini
Jan 20th, 17:45
I THINK YOU ARE PERFECTLY RIGHT. YES THE PN HAS ALL THE CREDENTIALS TO CONTINUE GOVERNING MALTA. YES WE ALL KNOW THAT THE ELCTRICITY BILLS ARE HIGH BUT WHAT CAN THE PL DO? MAY BE OTHER TAXES , WHO KNOWS.......
Tony Agius
Jan 20th, 15:50
@ Joseph Brincat , vera li ma tafx tghamel il paraguni ta , ghax Gulia ma qatilx lilu nnifsu imma qatel biss lil -GGANT , JEKK Franco ser warrab lil Dr. Gonzi u lil PN , Franco ser iwarrab LILU INNIFSU wkoll.
Tony Agius
Jan 20th, 16:59
@ Tony Agius to Joseph Brincat , ridt nghid li David qatel lil l -GGANT ( GULIJA ) imma David lil David wkoll , u Franco ser iwarrab lil Gvern kollu u hekk Franco ikun twarrab ukoll .
Charles Massa
Jan 20th, 15:47
Dr Debono irid accountability, haga li Gonzi u shabu ma ghandhomx. Keep it up Franco
Jeffrey Mallia
Jan 20th, 15:43
Dr Debono........you see what kind off people where supporting you ? You can't help not to notice this kind of venom and bile against you, and if they had the chance, they would throw you to the crocodiles...........what a bunch of hypocrites.
Mr Andrew Camilleri
Jan 20th, 17:35
No not hypocrites - Christian Democrats.
Mr Joseph Fenech
Jan 20th, 15:43
My questions are : does dr debono really believe he is achieving anything with his stand? does dr. debono believe that if he topples the government and we have elections his "reforms" will be considered, whether we have the blues or the reds in power? did he ever think that staying one more year as a government mp would help him to achieve his dream to see a reformed Malta? I believe that dr debono lacks ability to push forward his "reforms". The strategy he is choosing will not lead him anywhere.
Guzi Borg
Jan 20th, 15:32
Grazzi ghal dr debono, u nghidha fi kliem l-Onor Dr George Vella.... Joseph Muscat diga sar "prattikament prim ministru". Bravu. Nisperaw li kuntent issa.
http://guziborg.wordpress.com/2012/01/20/prattikament-prim-ministru/
Mr Joseph Fenech
Jan 20th, 15:51
no achievement really!! after 3 consecutive defeats!!!
Alexander Pace Gouder.
Jan 20th, 15:31
@ George Cutajar Fully agree with your comments with regard to The Hon.Dr.Francis Zammit Dimech. .Yes The Hon . Dr.Francis Zammit Dimech is a real gentleman. The Hon. Dr.Franco Debono confirmed this when he said Quote" Dr.Francis Dimech is a very dear colleague and a good friend".
Neville Debattista
Jan 20th, 15:08
@Franco Debono. Do you truly beleive that the " disgruntled Nationalists and floaters " whom you say you convinced to vote for the PN are in any way happy at the way you have reacted lately. Because if you say you do so then I must tell you that you are completely out of touch with reality. I would challenge you if you really beleive that they may look upon you as if you were some kind of a hero to go knocking at their doors and consult them one by one. You will surely find out that they feel much betrayed and dissillusioned at the fact that you have been bringing the party to its knees.
Paul Portelli
Jan 20th, 15:29
you know why they feel betrayed Neville?because they only care for the party and their pocket but not the good for the nation.cant you see Neville that the gonzi clikka boys has ruing every thing the party and the state.just tell me one thing that Franco did wrong.just one thing
Simon Micallef
Jan 20th, 15:07
Dr Debono , you are right all the way.The government is surrounded by a small clique ,going from one government board to another. The reforms you talked about have not been put in practice, because that will seize the clique from manipulating the whole scene. The government is trying to hold on with the voting in parlament , so it will have time to implement some of your issues ,but that does not interfere with the clique. we want persons like you . persons that want a new way to do politics and not the old style that you must have that type of surname to get things done. Dr Debono hold on to your guns and i'm sure that you will be awarded for what you are going through right now.
Joseph Brincat
Jan 20th, 15:00
HISTORY REPEAT ITSELF ! ! ! !
LIKE THE STORY OF
,
( " IL - GGANT (GONZI PN " ) U GULIJA ( Dr DEBONO )
Joseph Sammut
Jan 20th, 15:30
You've got it all wrong; it was David u Gulija:)
Joseph Cauchi Senior
Jan 20th, 15:00
There is no doubt about it; this man is full of himself.
He is just one big EGOCENTRIC!
I just hope that the FD stops wasting the PM’s valuable time and let him concentrate on more pressing issues such as the economy and our job securities.
FD, the buck stops here!
Just do what you have to do and let’s get it over.
Your few hours of fame will soon be over, Thank God!
JC.
Mr Andrew Camilleri
Jan 20th, 17:42
There is no doubt about it; this man is full of himself.
He is just one big EGOCENTRIC!
I just hope that tDr. Gonzi stops wasting the Maltese valuable time and let them concentrate on more pressing issues such as the economy and their job securities.
Dr. Gonzi, the buck stops here!
Just do what you have to do and let’s get it over.
Your few years of fame will soon be over, Thank God!
AC
carmelo duca
Jan 20th, 14:54
when the maltese people found somebody to stand up for them the [Klikka] tal pn wants to destroy the person because they belive that the parlament seat is given to them byGod.where were these people that came out with this force against Dr.Debono in 1996 when an 80year old kept the then pl as a hostage and the pn rubbing their hands seeing thier chance of getting the seat that God gave them back?Franco is only 30 something and could have consintrate on his work and future but he took a step that nobody in MALTA will do such a thing[apart an 80 year old with nothing to loose] kurrac Franco int biss kellek il hila tiqfila lil din il klikkaPn.
j brincat
Jan 20th, 14:38
This person makes a lot of sense.
It's a shame that he had to sacrifice ALL because he was not heard when he pleaded!
So, this is the price that GonziPN has to pay. Unless of course Dr Gonzi resigns!
(jb)
Mark. Galea
Jan 20th, 15:06
if he makes so much sense, why didn't the PL offer his hand and take him in? If PL offered FD to cross the divide, it would have been much easier ...
Joseph Sammut
Jan 20th, 16:46
Qed tghamlu wisq miskin. Tahseb li Prim Ministru, hu min hu, ghandu jirrezenja ghax ma ghamilx back bencher ministru? Tirraguna hej!!! Haga li ma tistax tkun, imma nixtieq inkun naf dawn li jiktbu bl-amment kieku kienu huma prim ministri, xkienu jghamlu - qatta armchair paroli.
Michael Magri
Jan 20th, 14:37
In my openion, the PN made a big calculated political mistake in having the last general elections being contended under the `nom-de-plume` of GonziPN..!! Meaning that Dr. Gonzi clearly gave the signal that HE IS `THE` PN and NO ONE ELSE..!! It looks like, because this GonziPN `thing` had by some magical luck or some other `Doings`, succeeded in winning those elections by a whisker, this kind of success must have gone to Dr. Gonzi`s head, with the result of Ignoring and treating his collegues in parlament according to `His-Master`s-Voice`..!! Thus obviously creating a `Klikka` around him, against the rest....!!!!
Consequently, in so doing, we all know the kind of Rifts and `Misbehaviour` this system has brought to the GonziPN`s Regime of a goverrnment, amongst quite a few of his own Back-Benchers... Mainly, i must say, the Hon Franco Debono.. But after one follows all this with an open eye, one must come to the conclusion that Dr. Debono had / has made a lot of sense in what he said and is still saying..
So having said all that, i must conclude that the Hon. Franco Debono has been on the right side of our Political History ALL ALONG in instigating his Courageous `crusade` for the benefit of this Country of ours and it`s Citizins.. Whilst the GonziPN`s `idea` of a Regime, has yet again proved that, it might have been `tricky` to win an election at that time, BUT it has finaly resulted in a total failure in keeping a Harmony of Solidarity amongst it`s parlamentarians, to the detriment of the Stability of our Country..!!
Therefore, the next best and obvious thing to do now, so we can move forward from this mess of a GonziPN`s governmental situation, is an election A.S.A.P..... Period...
Frank Gauci
Jan 20th, 14:32
Dr. Debono... every single vote helped PN to be in government, not only yours so please respect others... People like you must not take part in politics. You're not defending democracy. You are so humble.. me, myself and I.
GEORGE CUTAJAR
Jan 20th, 14:32
Rather than chastising Francis Zammit Dimech, Debono should seek his help to understand what makes a true politician who above all is a gentleman.
Francis has always served the party , his constituents and above all the country well and this in all positions he was asked to serve.
Complete loyalty to your party and leader does not mean being a yes man and Francis has shown this on many occasions having been directly involved in politics since his teens, climbing up the ranks to various ministerial roles he held over the years.
Even after the last election when he was relegated to the backbench he did not sulk or throw tantrums. He simply carried on, as did the vast majority of ex ministers, serving the country, the party and their constituents in their designated role.
This is all very diametrically opposed to to the wannabe minister Debono. He simply expected that on being elected he should have been made minister plenipotentiary or perhaps a prime minister and why - because he obtained the votes of disgruntled Nationalist supporters. Big deal. I always believed that when one candidates himself for a party he does so with the precise scope of obtaining votes. Should parties now be obliged to appoint MP's as ministers those who obtain the votes of disgruntled voters? If this is the case than local politics is heading at top speed into the wilderness.
He again launches and attack on is other nemesis Dr. Galea and Mrs. D'Amato .
As always he only cares about himself and advertises to the world his great potential which has been suffocated.
Godfrey Schembri
Jan 20th, 14:56
Very well said.
J Busuttil
Jan 20th, 14:31
Contradicting your thesis says it all siehbi Franco.
Carmel Xuereb
Jan 20th, 14:21
The PN government is sinking and Gonzi and Co are still trying to find somthing that can harm Dr. Franco Debono,they are going at all lengths even looking at his thesis (oh my God how far could they go) but they could find nothing because this guy was very clever since his childhood, he studied hard and achieved very good results by studying not by copying, he is a very good lawyer because he is a good fighter and he is a very good member of parlament because he believes in good governance and want everything to function in a good manner, ie when someone is at fault he must resign. I admire you Dr. Debono and I hope that we will have more like you in the immediate future. Good luck Dr. Debono.
Mr Joseph Fenech
Jan 20th, 15:47
Yes, good luck to dr debono. The best luck we can wish dr debono is that he stops thinking he is better than others.
Kevin Wain
Jan 20th, 14:14
I think that Dr. Debono has a number of excellent ideas in him and, on many issues, such as party financing, the right for a lawyer for those who are arrested etc. he might also be right that the government have dragged its feet for way too long. The problem with Dr. Debono saga, though, is that at the end of the tunnel there seems to be no hope, his political carreer is in shambles and, to add to it all, his suggestions will be forgotten when his contribution to political scene is gone and buried after the forthcoming elections. I believe that a pragmatic approach could have brought greater results than aggression seen in Dr. Debono's contribution.
Mr Mario Zammit
Jan 20th, 14:01
Your time of making the headlines will soon be over. Unfortunately you will soon be Mr. Nobody .
Manuel Camilleri
Jan 20th, 13:58
Do everybody a favour and cross the floor. What you wrote in your thesis contradicts your present actions. Be a gentleman and admit it.
Tony Agius
Jan 20th, 13:56
Dr. Franco , you can convince your self and your close clique , but now what ever you do will never really convince the PEOPLE , you have not been doing it the right way , and not in line as you should be , and not with the right pace , now either you get in line , or you will be dismissed even if the whole troop has to be dismissed witch still will mean that you will be dismissed.
Thomas Mifsud
Jan 20th, 13:52
Franco, Malta begs you to join the new progressive movement. The Maltese wants you to be in the leadership of our country. We want tough people like you to stand against those who are wrong and evil no matter which party they come from.
We young voters want a different Malta, we want a government that gives to the country not take from the country like this GonziPN has done. That's why I'm voting Labour this time, because Joseph Muscat is young and full of energy, ready to give us Maltese people and our country a new breath. Goodbye Lawrence Gaddafi and his regime, hello Dr Muscat and your hard workers.
Martin Abela
Jan 20th, 13:51
Dr Debono, my family who live in Birzebbugia voted for you. My aunt and uncle who live in Kirkop also voted for you. They are all Nationalist. They are certainly not disgruntled.
But they are certainly livid at what you are doing with the trust they put in you. They voted for the Nationalist electoral programme, not yours.They voted for 5 years of government, You were supposed to toe the line the see the Nationalist programme through. That is why they voted for yo. in the first place.
joseph caruana
Jan 20th, 13:45
How I wish I was Dr.Franco Debono.This man is a hero in my books.
Jeffrey Mallia
Jan 20th, 13:44
Dear people down below ( well most of them ) ........didn't your santissimo prime minister ordered you not to vent personal attacks against other people ( ie FD ) ??
pat muscat
Jan 20th, 13:39
It is incredible! I suppose that the same clique that went through Dr Sant's private matters in court-that is his marriage-again spied on Dr Franco Debono's thesis, in order to increase the dosage of personal attacks against the suffering Nationalist MP! So from one side we have the platitude of Dr Gonzi about 'personal attacks' and at the same time, an evil nationalist clique, playing dirty and quoting nasty things against Dr Debono.
K. Vella
Jan 20th, 13:38
Franco read Wilfred comments.....Labour is just using the situation....their aim is not to put forward your proposals but to go in goverment.
The message is on the wall...
David Cole
Jan 20th, 13:29
JIen ma nafx. Nghid jien allura in-nazzjonalisti shabi ma jadilhomx minn mohhhom wara il-bierah li forsi il-pn qed jigdeb. Ghamilt hmistax najjat jien li fin-1998 meta is-sitwazzjoni kienet bil-kontra il-PN ma ressaqx mozzjoni bhal il-PL u mexa ta nies. Issa il-bierah bhal sajjetta fil-bnazzi skoprejt li kienet saret mozzjoni ta sfiducja mill Pn fl-1998 u mghaddietx. Jien nofs verita u l-gideb idejquni. Ha nejdlek waqajt ta hmar jien u malli ha jghid xi haga il-Pn ha nibda nahsibha hijiex verita jew gidba ohra. Ha nispicca nghid li vera l-gvern ta issa qed ihawwad.
R Bonello
Jan 20th, 13:28
naqra il comments t'hawn taht u nghid....ghadu miftuh il bieb jew le ? tghajruh, tilaqghuh, u terghu tghajruh, ma nistax nifhem !
Lawrence Fenech
Jan 20th, 13:28
Dr. Franco f'din il-faz min qed jemminhom il ta' GonziPN ghax malli jifthu halqhom xeba kummenti qed jaqilghu.
maria valent
Jan 20th, 13:26
Here we go again.... Me, Me, Me....
carmel muscat
Jan 20th, 13:23
jiena ma jiniteresanix xjed franco debono u gonzi pn li jintresani f dan il mumnet huwa in noqas ta sigurta li hawn fuq dawn il cruise liners meta naf li hafna maltin inkludi il familja tieghi inhobbuimorru fuq sawn il cruises suppost b mohna mistrih insaqsi ghalehekk kif il kumpanija taf b certezza li il kaptan f awissu tat 2011 biex ma najdtx drabi ohra wkoll kien wkoll ma segwix ir rotta u hallewh xorta wahda kaptan lil francesco Schettino ?
maria valent
Jan 20th, 13:17
The instability has been caused because of the fear that a labour goverment comes into force. The govt is doing extremely well on all fronts and Gonzipn is the natural choise for stability, job opportunities and progress. The LP pretend that they are ready to govern, but in reality they have no plans and all is vague.
Franco talks widely on democracy and values, but alas, he shows how undemocratic he is himself as he wants to pull down a democratic elected goverment to satisfy his egos.
Milena Aguis
Jan 20th, 13:11
FRANCO FOR PRIME MINISTER!
Mikey Grima
Jan 20th, 13:11
Franco is apparently insisting furiously with the MFA to play in malta's international match against Italy because he got a good mark in PE at school and won the potato race in prep.1 too :)
VINCENT WILLIAMS
Jan 20th, 13:06
Thank you Dr Franco Debono for voicing your concern in favour of the people of any political crede in the south of Malta.
Time will clearly show that bringing down GonziPartitNegattiv will be appreciated by the fast majority of the voters!!!!!
Angelo Vassallo
Jan 20th, 13:05
@ Guido Farrugia
You forgot to address FD as "Honourable"
In the black days, Dr. Eddie Fenech Adami, Leader of the Opposition, was not even mentioned as EFA on the state radio and television. Those were the days of ARROGANCE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
A.M. Galea
Jan 20th, 19:17
Mr.Vassallo , you forgot to mention a numerous ammount of titles attributed to Dr.Debono by those Nats that regards themselfes as Christians .
Guido Farrugia
Jan 20th, 20:03
Yes, for once you're right, i should address him Honor. Dr. Franco Debono LLD MP. Your arrogance speaks loads and loads.
Jo Grima
Jan 20th, 13:02
get off your EGO TRIP Franco, give us and yourself a break. i cannot stand reading any more of your ...i am, i have. I want. its not all about you !! get yourself a life...make yourself a favour
Paul Muscat
Jan 20th, 12:59
Franco postok fil partit biex tkompli tahdem ghal principj li temmen fihom. Tahseb li jekk ikollna gvern laburista sa jkun qed jahdem ghal gid tad-demokrazija li tant temmen fiha meta ghad ghandu fi hdanu nies fejn id-demokrazija giet mkassbra u mzebilha meta kienu fil gvern.
Il-poplu ma jinsiex minn dak kollu li ghaddejna minnu.
Mario Grima
Jan 20th, 16:53
Sewwa qed tghid li il-poplu ma jinsiex minn x'hiex ghadda f'dawn l-ahhar snin, specjalment taht GonziPN li irnexxielu jfarrak pajjiz.
Mhux se jinsew dawk il-haddiema ta l-AirMalta u ta Drydocks li qabel l-ellezzjoni Gonzi qallhom li i-job taghhom huwa garantit. Mhux se jinsew dawk in-nassaba u il-kaccaturi li Gonzi tmellah bihom. Mhux se jinsew dawk l-eluf li ilhom jistennew operazzjoni go Mater Dei ghal bosta snin. Mhux ser jinsew dawk l-eluf ta Maltin li ma jifilhux ilahhqu mal-hajja gholja. Mhux ser jinsew dawk kollha li ma ghandhomx biex ihallsu il-kontijiet esagerati tad-dawl u l-ilma. Mhux ser jinsew dawk kollha li juzaw it-trasport provdut mill Arriva. Mhux ser jinsew l-arroganza ta Gonzi u il-ministri tieghu. Mhux ser jinsew li suppost Gonzi kellu jnaqqas l-income Tax kif kien wieghed. Mhux ser jinsew in-nies ta Marsaxlokk fejn Gonzi bnielhom extension tal-Power Station. Mhux ser jinsew dawk l-eluf li juzaw il-facilitajiet, jew ahjar in-nuqqas taghhom, li suppost hemm fic- Cirkewwa. Mhux ser jinsew kif id-demokrazija tnaqqret f'dan ikl-pajjiz. Mhux ser jinsew li hadd ma huwa 'accountable' ta xejn. Mhux ser jinsew li il-ministri u il-klikka taghhom m'humiex trasparenti. Mhux ser jinsew kif tal-klikka jahtfu kull-kuntratt. mhux ser jinsew kif il-korruzzjoni gol-pajjiz refghat rasha. Mhux ser jinsew li il-jobs it-tajba geghdin biss ghal dawk in-nazzjonalisti tal-klikka.
Imsomma Sur Muscat, hadd mhux ser jinsa il-weghdi li ghamel GonziPN lill poplu Malti hu Ghawdxi
C Muscat
Jan 20th, 12:56
What I have been pushing for is what others should have been doing, but did not.
Franco you have to decide; if it is what you would like to do just keep on doing it..if it is the work of others just leave the work to be done by whoever is resposible.
Just leave the PN government moving on and the maltese nation will be able to assess when the term is done...malta did a great mistake in 1998 and it was the introduction of the euro that managed the situation but this time if we have a change due to the misap no one will be able to stop the rift between the lowest and the well to do. No more middle class.
All you have to do to stop the mistake is either vote PN or stay at home. Do not trust PL in this issue!
John Scerri
Jan 20th, 12:55
Politics is part of me and everyone can appreciate how hard it is for me to take the stand I am taking for the good of democracy. I tried to push for a new way of doing politics....
Any new way of doing anything requires proper strategy and proper communication with all those involved prior to anything being done or implemented
This is called management WORK STUDY , whether politics, policies, procedures and so on.
Dr.Debono has put forward many valid proposals and I honestly think that the method used was not correct .
Dr.Debono contested as a PN candidate and was elected by those who, for various reasons wanted PN in government rather than MLP
vella m
Jan 20th, 12:53
Franco for sure is not a yes man,others from both sides should learn from him.
Joseph Sammut
Jan 20th, 14:24
There are many other things that he is not!!!!
Alex Ellul
Jan 20th, 12:50
Malta has francodebonitis, a new pathogen. We need an antigen for this malady, fast.
Chris Spiteri
Jan 20th, 14:46
Trying to be funny? You failed miserably. Do you even know what an antigen is? I suggest you look it up, because you clearly don't. The word you meant to use is 'antidote'.
George Calleja
Jan 20th, 12:49
Jekk tnehhilu l-fanfarunati u d-diskors dispreggjattiv, Franco ma jibqalu xejn ta sustanza. Mohhu biss biex jiffanfra kemm hu bravu, kif hu ahjar minn kulhadd, kif kollox hu ssuggerixxa. Kollox hu u haddiehor idjota. Fl-opinjoni egoistika tieghu jahseb li hu u hu biss kapaci jmexxi pajjiz.....mhux Malta ta....imma xi Amerika jew Ewropa shiha. L-umilta ma jafx x'tfisser. Issa anki t-tezi tieghu stess qed imeri. Dan min hu? Aristotile, Confucju, Platun? Ghax ma jghidx car u tond li wara biss erba snin fil-parlament ippretenda ministeru u ghax ma nghatax ministeru qed johloq dan l-inkwiet kollu. Ghax ma jipparagunax l-inkwiet serjissmu li hemm f'pajjizi ohra u jirrimgrazzja l' Alla li Malta hija griza li l-barranin ukoll jammiraw u jfahhru Qed jiehu pjacir jigi ntervistat halli juri kemm hu uniku fid-dinja. Issa ivvota kontra u l-karriera tieghek ttir mar-rih....ghax il-proposti illustri tieghek ma jkunux jiswew karlin.
Daniel Dimech
Jan 20th, 12:46
kieku hawn hafna bhalek nibda nemmen li malta tista timxi fuq ir rubini... imma wahdek kontra kulhadd ibda minn niesek ma nafx. Il-prolema li ahna il maltin nittekiljaw il politika qisha loghba football. keep it up u taqtax qalbek ghad jaghtuk ragun
Mr E. Vella
Jan 20th, 12:42
This part of this report has caught my attention: 'during that time he had been able to focus on his profession and build his legal office'. So am I right to say that being a backbencher has made him a better and experienced lawyer...Dr. Franco you can't have both the jam and the cake!! or else now that you have build your legal office you aimed for a minister too. I have like many lost hope to understand you, the more I read your comments the more i understand your intentions.....give us some space...you are holding a nation hostage just for the sake of your pride and egoism to be famous, but this way you are the loser not us.
Joseph Brincat
Jan 20th, 12:40
ALL I CAN SAY IS ,THAT I VOTED FOR DR. FRANCO
I WOULD HAVE BEEN VERY PROUD OF IT ! ! !
John Borg
Jan 20th, 12:38
FRanco should write a book to show what a big hero he is. The title should be Me, Myself and I.
Peter Zahra
Jan 20th, 12:38
I am afraid that Dr Debono has pushed it to far in his new way of doing politics.........
I can partly understand his frustration in not being given the means to exploit his capabilities, but one cannot take extreme decisions and start deciding whom has to be appointed, promoted or demoted etc etc as this will surely result in a chaos. There should be discussions & criticism but one should abide the leader's decision at the end......
John Borg
Jan 20th, 12:37
Why are a lot of people saying Franco';s suggestions make sense? Ask someone who's been mugged and robbed whether it makes sense to have a lawyer present when whoever mugged him is arrested. And why does it make sense to have justice separate from home affairs? look at the EU council and see who even the EU groups them together in the council of ministers!
James Grech
Jan 20th, 12:36
@Daniela Camilleri
He could also be remembered as the person that highlighted the failures of a weary and "sick" government and party and the initiator of a greatly welcomed self-analysis for the PN which would hopefully turn into a reform for the same party and food for thought for the PL, which are aspiring of becoming the next party in Government.
Maria Mangion
Jan 20th, 12:34
Francis Zammit Dimech qisu qam minn raqda twila minn fuq il bank ta' wara. Illum iddawwar fejn iddawwar fuq it televisjoni ssib lilu. Francis ahna nies bhal Franco irridu l parlament, biezla u hawtiela.
Joe Cordina
Jan 20th, 12:30
Tajd miljun bizzejjed?
Wilfred Camilleri
Jan 20th, 12:28
Debono please join MuscatPL. You and Muscat deserve each other.
Tommy Vella
Jan 20th, 13:00
You would be two sparks that will set PL on fire.
Mark Borg
Jan 20th, 13:13
MuscatPL? Am I missing something?
twanny borg
Jan 20th, 13:15
le. li kieku kont flokok nivvota li m'ghandekx fiducja u tirrezenja. din tigbed l-ammirazzjoni tal-poplu malti ghal dejjem ghax taghti prova li temmen dak li tghid. il-bqija dispjacir u stmerrija se jkollok ghal dejjem.
Victor Calleja
Jan 20th, 13:19
Good idea. He will be more appreciated there.
Frans Aguis
Jan 20th, 13:22
Only Gonzi would name a party after himself.Please stop projecting the mistake GonziPN made.Repeat it all you want it won't stick because everyone remembers GonziPN
Lawrence Fenech
Jan 20th, 13:34
@Wilfred.
It's a good suggestion I am sure he would be better off, PL is open to everybody that is Joseph Muscat's open democracy.
Wilfred Camilleri
Jan 20th, 16:22
Mark Borg & Frans Aguis: If you really believe that Muscat does not lead his party with an iron fist and is in absolute control of his party, you both are extremely naive. Both party leader rule their parties with iron fists and although Gonzi was the only one to admit to it by campaigning as GonziPN, Muscat will do the same; so MuscatPL it is whether he admits it or not. It's the nature of politics and political parties to have leaders that are in absolute control of their parties. If you believe that every PL MP can do as he/she pleases, then as I said before, you are extremely naive or you do not understand party politics.
Mr Stephen Borg
Jan 20th, 12:28
If he was asked to comment about what was written in his theses I presume that the PN went to the lengths of going through Dr Franco Debono's thesis in order to find writings which could be used to discredit him. At the very start of this saga I was skeptic about the real motives after Dr Debono's claims but the more I hear from Government exponents the more legitimate Dr Debono's claims seem to be. Today I am starting to really understand how a small country like ours legged behind in many sectors, we legged behind not because of our size but because of our political culture where non-achievers are neither asked, nor forced to resign to make way to others with better ideas.
John Borg
Jan 20th, 12:39
Jekk qed jikkonvincik Franco, veru ma baqax tama f'dal pajjiz ghax anqas il-lejber mhu jafdah!
Henry Jacobs
Jan 20th, 12:28
Franco : Did your mum ever tell you you made something wrong?
Joseph Brincat
Jan 20th, 12:47
Henry Jacobs
YES , way did joined GONZI PN !!!!!!!!!!!!!
Joe E Galea
Jan 20th, 13:20
MMM did you know that your GonzinPn told you not to revert to personal attacks?
John Camilleri
Jan 20th, 12:28
Veru ghawn nies narrow minded u jaraw viss l interess tal prtit ispetiv taghhom. Kien ikunn konvenjenti ghal Dr. Debono li jaghlaq halqu u tasal l elezjoni jerga jitla bil kwiet imma dan qied jigieled ghal interessi taghna ic citadini u fuq kollox qednaghtuh mil ghar ghax qed jidru iktar dawk li suppost qedin jiedu hsieb id dritijiet taghna imma minflokk qedin jaghmlu xoghol iehor ta natura ta interess personali u imhalsin minnghha ic citadini.
Ghal dawk kollha li b xi mod jew iehor qed jaghdu kummenti negativi fuq Dr. Debono naghdilhom li xi darba ser isarfu il frott huma ghal dak li Dr. Debono pogga il karriera politka tieghu fin nofs.
Ghal gvernijiet futuri, dawn immishom jihdu notta serja ghal nies bhal Dr. Debono ghax nies bhallu ma tantx issib u fuq iz zewg nahat.
Prosit Dr. Debono ibqa ahdem kif qed taghmel ghax ghahna min niex bhallek gawdejna xi haga u fitxu fl istorja.
Sewwa jaghjdu l istorja tirepetti ruha imma kuluri differenti u nies specjali li toghdhom fuq id wahda.
Mario Galea
Jan 20th, 13:22
Nirrikomanda lil Onorevoli Dr. Franco Debono johrog ghal-elezzjoni Generali bhala kandidat Indipendenti halli naraw kemm dawn il-paladini kollha li hawn jghidu kemm qed tiggieled ghalina ic-cittadini ser jivvutawlek.
jien nahseb li dawn kollha jinteressahom biss li il-PL jiehu il-poter u xejn aktar.
Good Luck ghal-futur Dr. Debono.
Daniela Camilleri
Jan 20th, 12:27
Botttom line: If next week Franco votes with the Opposition, or abstains, he will become a nobody and all his 'efforts' forgotten. Because he will be remembered as the MP who brought the downfall of the Government - and that is a negative thing dear Franco.
James Tyrrell
Jan 20th, 12:44
If the Government falls and let's hope for the sake of the country it does, it will do so because the Government have failed the people, have lied to the people and have left the entire country worse off financially than it has ever been. People like you who are blinded by party loyalty are simply using Franco as a scapegoat for the failings of your Government.
Victor Calleja
Jan 20th, 12:54
No daniela he will be remembered as a hero of democracy.
I am sure that whoever is to be the next government of Malta, will use his intelligence, his honest and his charisma. This does not mean that all he says is Biblical but his ideas are worth looking at and work upon.
Mr Eric Camilleri
Jan 20th, 12:54
I do not agree with you at all. Franco won't be MP in the next legislature but will be for sure in the next.
Don't you remember what happened when Joseph Muscat was elected leader of the LP? Many disgruntled laborites got back to the LP even Dom Mintoff!!
The NP is doing the same exact mistakes like Alfred Sant did, creating a battle between two but they never met. What was the outcome?? The downfall of the LP. But at least Dr. Sant shouldered the responsibility and he always spoke to the media the truth, Gonzi is hiding and when he has a chance to speak he lies and lies and lies and lies.......
Deo Catania
Jan 20th, 13:08
negative for you perhaps, for me it's a very positive thing to get rid of this arrogant governmemt especially Gonzi/Gatt/Fenech.
Joe E Galea
Jan 20th, 13:21
@ Daniela: "Because he will be remembered as the MP who brought the downfall of the Government - and that is a negative thing dear Franco."
........Yes it is a negative thing for your GonziPN and a very positive thing to whole Malta.
Donna Parnis
Jan 20th, 13:47
Only by a minority will he be remembered as the man who brought the downfall of the Government in a negative way, because if you read a lot of the comments that have been in the papers you will see that a majority of the people applaud him for being a man and standing up for the people whether they are PN or LP. His political career may be over but at least he had the guts to stand for what he believed in and in doing so has opened a can of worms that seem to be growing and growing, It has also shown people in new lights as to what their real intentions are towards the people of Malta. and how lies and back biting goes on in our Government, The people Malta elected are not there for the Maltese people they are there to line their own pockets. So I hope Mr Debono carries on doing what he is doing and brings about positive changes to our country the only negativity for Mr. Debono is coming from the PN.
Martin Abela
Jan 20th, 14:01
It will be his death knell both politically and professionally, who can trust someone who moves the goalposts just as he deems fit, and this in order to feel grandiose and stay in the limelight,
Or maybe because he wanted to be minister or has a grudge against the Mifsud Bonnici Family that dates back from his university (eeee. thesis!!!!!) days.
A. Xuereb
Jan 20th, 14:27
It seems that Hon Dr Franco Debono would rather be remembered for the ONE who brought government down than the one who rode roughshod over the Maltese people as some of his colleagues have been doing.Then again,those who stand to lose, a cushy job perhaps, prefer to label Dr Debono a madman or a spoilt baby rather than try to really understand the reforms he s trying to push.
p zammit
Jan 20th, 12:27
malta jixirqila jkollha gvern kif suppost andu jkollha biex nimxu il- quddiem. nies validi bhal franco il- maltin ituhom bis sieq. ghax l ewwel il- partit forsi u mux in- nazzjon. ma nistawx nitalmu darba ghal dejjem u niffurmaw gvern li jixirqilna li jara l interess tan nazzjon l- ewwel mbad il- partit ghal gid komuni. ma nistawx namlu bhal inglizi ghamlu gvern ta koalizzjoni??????u jekk hawn krizi finanzjarja fl- ewropa,allura it- taljani boloh? ghadu kemm irrezenja berlusconi u ghamlu gvern gdid. meta ha nitghalmu??????
Peter Zahra
Jan 20th, 13:14
yes that could be a possible scenario..... maybe Lawrence Gonzi would immediately resign after the vote is taken and nominates instead someone else to the President, to lead the governement..... I think Simon Busuttil would be the ideal choice, since he is intellegent and respected from the majority of the maltese people. This would be possible after some other nationalist member of parliament resigns to give his seat for replacement. This senario has happened, and both KMB and Joseph Muscat were co-opted in parliament without being elected in the general election. If this is a possible scenario, then both leaders can go for an election when it is due, and after issuing their respective electorale programmes...
Alex Falzon
Jan 20th, 13:46
L-Italja qeghda fi krizi ekonomika... Malta m'ghandhiex krizi ekonomika/finanzjara ghajr ghal krizi nterna fi hdan il-PN. Araw x'lussu fuq x'hiex qeghdin nahlu l-hin.
Rachel Borg
Jan 20th, 12:23
He says 'I' all the time ... because, it is all about 'him'!
James Tyrrell
Jan 20th, 12:50
Oh for God's sake wise up as we say over here. Given that he is the subject of the text what would he use other than 'I'?
C Baldacchino
Jan 20th, 12:18
Ghaziz Franco, taghmel x'taghmel u tghid x'tghid MINTIX ser tilhaq Prim Ministru, QAS QATT!!!!!!!!!!
Daniel Dimech
Jan 20th, 12:43
mela taqra x xorti??????
Victor Calleja
Jan 20th, 12:55
Ma nahsibx li ghandu dik lambizzjoni.
Mr Joe Micallef
Jan 20th, 12:17
me me me me
David Caruana
Jan 20th, 14:00
Or rather, my ideas, my ideas, my very sensible and positive ideas
Mr Joe Micallef
Jan 20th, 16:11
no no it's me me pick me pick me !
Richard Caruana
Jan 20th, 12:14
By your reasoning, Dr Debono, you should surrender your doctorate if your thesis means nothing to you any more.
Probably the Hon Dr never thought it would be dug up...
James Tyrrell
Jan 20th, 12:51
And I suppose your thesis is such an important part of your present life that you have it framed and hanging in your sitting room!
Mr Michael Debono
Jan 20th, 12:10
re Franco Debono and L.Gonzi
The prime minister has more than once took Franco Debono with him abroad. What was the purpose? simple: toconnive together far from Malta's ears what to do incase a diufficult financial situation comes up. This happened:the difficult situation has come so Gonzi pin would rather leave the rostrum to the LP than face it himself. This in my view is what prompted the present situation. The P.N. would not want to govern in such difficult times so it decided "Coraggio Fuggiamo" agreed between them when far from Maltese ears. So the present position has been planned andis being executed.
Tommy Vella
Jan 20th, 13:05
Very perspicacious of you to be the only one to find out the real reason behind all this. Is it because all Debonos are very intelligent?
Andrew Zahra
Jan 20th, 12:09
ma nafx kif irnexxielna qabel ma gejt int dr debono
Charles J. Buttigieg
Jan 20th, 12:04
Votes are not inherited. Our STV system allows us a multiple choice, if our no 1 can't be effectively utilized it will move on to no 2,3,4,5 etc.
sefora borg
Jan 20th, 12:04
well done franco
john gauci
Jan 20th, 12:03
imma kief dejjem ghandu ragun?
Tonio Farrugia
Jan 20th, 12:23
cause the simplest thing in life is criticising.... and its a national hobby it seems...
Mark. Galea
Jan 20th, 12:03
Although a good part of the reforms he is suggesting makes sense, making this man a minister would have been the greatest of the mistakes ... FD must go over with LP, it is there where the supermarket is.
Emanuel. Vella.
Jan 20th, 12:01
dr.francis zammit dimech,il-vot ta dr franco debono fil parlament juzah kif l-ahjar li jidhirlu hu,ghal gid tal poplu malti u ghawdxi kollu.
John Borg
Jan 20th, 12:01
Hallina minn ghaqlek Dr Debono. It-tezi ma tfisser xejn? Mela misshom johdulek id-dottorat ghax it-tezi suppost tkun il-kulminu tal-idejat ta min jaghmilha. Fiha jiddiskuti w jirribatti idejat ohrajn u johrog b'veizjoni tieghu. Hu car li titkellem bil-konvenjenza. jekk it-tezi ma tfisser xejn turina kemm ma taghiimt xejn mill universita, mhux billi tghid li ghigh achiever. joseph muscat kien jghaddik u se jerga thallih jghaddik!
Joseph Agius
Jan 20th, 12:00
What a waste of time and energy Franco! Stop moaning and just vote against the government (in other words in favour of the opposition) and vacate your seat please. WE disgruntled nationalists will then carefully decide whom to trust and elect!
Fabien Calleja
Jan 20th, 12:00
Get a life Mr. Debono kemm int bniedem egoist u fanfru! Do you think the universe revolves around you?
R. Balzan
Jan 20th, 12:17
Of course not. The universe revolves round Dr Lawrence Gonzi. Everybody knows that.
Guido Farrugia
Jan 20th, 12:21
No, the universe does not revolve around Dr. Debono but Malta sure does at the moment. I keep repeating that what the genleman is doing is according to the oath taken towards tha Republic of Malta and the Constitusion.. Well done Dott.
A D'Ascola
Jan 20th, 12:28
what an intelligent comment. WOW
Fabien Calleja
Jan 20th, 13:31
@ A D'Ascola - Issa la il pajjiz imur mitt sena lura habba ic cucati ta persuna wahda oqodu ifirhulu ta! Nirra jigri hekk anzi umbad naraw kemm tkunu heroes!
Victor Vella
Jan 20th, 11:59
Franco you are a reformer and not a rebel. I have any iota of doubt about that. The irony is that your Gonzi PN Regime does not want to make reforms or rather it wants to make reforms by incompetent people known to one and all. A reform that you are proposing takes a long time to debate and now time is pressing. It could be that Gonzi wants something half baked to try to shut up your mouth. Now Gonzi is more concerned how to steal votes of the cwiec Maltin than making reforms to benefit the whole nation as you are trying to do. I do not agree with you Franco that the end of the world is to-morrow. To-morrow will be the end of the world if people like you give up as your arrogant and unscrupulous leader wants you to stay back or in the shadow at the expense of incompetent and careless front benchers. You still can stay independent and continue to make pressure and make the people conscious how they can be manipulated by those arrogant in power. Remember Franco that a true reformer has to suffer and when he finds those inside ready to make mockery of him he/she can make more courage to continue with his/her reforms. Yesterday FZD tried to make a mockery of you and tried to deviate the true mission and objectives that you want to project by mentioning stupid things that make no sense other than making a mockery of himself as a stupid clown tries to do in a circus ring..
Michael Mercieca
Jan 20th, 11:59
Your final week of people caring about what you have to say. Make the most of it and for our sake kindly change the usual 'kantaliena' as it is becoming boring.
John Borg
Jan 20th, 11:57
I am baffled how no one asks what Dr Debono was given and what he was asked to do. Perhaps he can also explain the postings at the law courts after some employees there followed a course to become legal procurators. Some ended up working at the AG's office, others were given a task to assist judges and one person became a legal procurator of the director of courts or the court registrar. Can one ask if there a need for such a post or was it created to accommodate someone?
Darren Vassallo
Jan 20th, 11:54
well done dr.franco debono
Andrew Borg-Cardona
Jan 20th, 11:54
Yawn
Mr Andrew Camilleri
Jan 20th, 12:20
"yawn" - U miskin! Ghandu jkun Dr ABC ma raqad xejn dallejl bl-inkwiet li qed iqajjimlu FD.
Tony Busuttil
Jan 20th, 13:23
very funny as usual
Angelo Vassallo
Jan 20th, 11:47
"His position remained, he said, that the prime minister or the clique that was responsible for what had happened, must resign"
FD is conveniently and constantly changing the goal posts. As far as I know until now he had only asked for the Prime Minister's resignation, saying that he was willing to work with everyone except with Dr. Lawrence Gonzi. Today it is a bit different. He is now asking something different; he is asking EITHER the Prime Minister OR the "clique" to resign. And, for all we know, who forms part of this so-called clique"? What does FD really want?
.
Guido Farrugia
Jan 20th, 12:27
Maybe some advise from your goodself. You might give some good lectures on arrogance at it's best. The gentleman should be addressed as Dr. Franco Debono LLD. MP.
Andrew Borg-Cardona
Jan 20th, 13:08
You might want to learn some protocol yourself, Farrugia. If you write "Dr" you leave out the LL.D., unless you're not au fait.
Alfred Falzon
Jan 20th, 17:43
@ Andrew Borg Cardona
To begin with, double-barrelled surnames in Malta are not written with a hyphen.
Secondly, in Malta, we need to distinguish between a doctor of law and a medical doctor, so Mr Guido Farrugia did well to add LLD in contrast with MD!
Gentlemen of your ilk would do well to recall that before trying to belittle those who respect GENUINE MPs the like of Dr FRANCO DEBONO should first and foremost learn ethics themselves!
Alfred A. Falzon
Guido Farrugia
Jan 20th, 20:10
@ The usual Borg Cardona giving lectures to everyone U xi dwejjaq ghandu l-boy!
Emanuel. Vella.
Jan 20th, 11:42
dr.franco debono biss,jista jibni mil-gdid lil pn.kif dr.joseph muscat bena mil gdid lil pl.dr.franco debono,is a born leader.
Alex Falzon
Jan 20th, 13:52
X'hemm gdid fil-PL? Nemmen illi Joseph Muscat uza kliem bumbastiku meta ddeskriva lli jekk jirbah l-elezzjini generali Malta se jkollha l-aqwa kabinet li qatt rajna... l-aqwa kabinett b'liema personalitajiet? u halluna
Joe E Galea
Jan 20th, 11:40
Go Franco Go!!
For me if the PL is in power this guy should be given a good position from which he can push his valuable ideas. The country needs people like Franco.
Mr Joe Micallef
Jan 20th, 12:20
Galea whilst Franco had always outshone Joey at school, I am certain Joey is not dumb to that degree!
Joe E Galea
Jan 20th, 13:18
Micallef mmm my point was that Franco's arguments do hold water when it comes to reform and on the lack of accountability of the government. I did not say that Franco should be part of PL/government but part of a governmental position perhaps in which still he can give his valuable output.
However, I am sure that he won't topple the government. Why do you think the PN tried to buy another week? A week in politics is an eternity. I am sure that the PN has something up the sleeve brewing to buy Franco out. They don't want him in the party, they just want him to shut up...perhaps with a couple of millions. Money talks in this world...why do you think the PN are totally stuck to the chair of power?
Mr Joe Micallef
Jan 20th, 14:46
Ever thought of writing the script for a horror film! The least you would get is a nomination for the Oscars!
Go Joe Go!
Alex Falzon
Jan 20th, 11:37
According on how this article is written - it seems to me that Dr Debono is more relaxed in expressing himself and appears to me that his big anger is calming down giving space to more discussion within the PN structures.
All in all I think that If the MP manages to control better his ego and attitude in the way he expresses himself he can still be a valid asset to his party/country.
Joseph Agius
Jan 20th, 12:10
You might be right.....but by voting against his party, he's only doing a political suicide.
Joseph Portelli
Jan 20th, 11:36
Franco, jien ma nafx min ghandu jirrizenja! Li hu zgur hu li l-maggoranza assoluta u kbira ta' dawk li vvutawlek u tellghuk fil-parlament illum int m'ghadekx tirraprezentahom. Weggajtna hafna franco.
B Attard
Jan 20th, 14:00
Tkellem ghalik habib.
fredu debono
Jan 20th, 11:33
Flok iggelu jirrizenja sib l-okkazjoni u ikkontestah ghal kariga ta kap u ta prim ministru. jekk tilhaq int ir-riformi li trid taghmel aghmilhom meta tkun fil kariga. jekk se twaqqa l-gvern qatt u qatt izjed mhu se jigik ic-cans li taghmel xi haga ghax in-nies ma javdawkx izjed u tkun hraqt hajtek u l-karriera.