Update 5: Censu Tabone passes away - State funeral on Saturday
Censu Tabone, former President of Malta, passed away at home this morning, members of his family said. He was two weeks short of his 99th birthday.
President George Abela expressed the country's condolences in a phone call to Mrs Tabone, praising Dr Tabone for his values, his service to the country and the way be brought people together.
A state funeral will be held on Saturday with Mass at 10.30 a.m. at St John's Co-Cathedral. There will be lying in state at the Palace in Valletta tomorrow afternoon and on Friday.
Dr Tabone was born in Victoria on March 30, 1913. His father was Gozitan while his mother was from Cospicua.
He was the only minister to have served under both Dr George Borg Olivier (as minister of Labour) and under Eddie Fenech Adami, as foreign minister. He was the first Nationalist Party politician to become head of state.
Dr Tabone also served as general secretary and then deputy leader of the PN but came third in the leadership election which saw Dr Fenech Adami appointed to head the party.
An ophthalmologist by profession, Dr Tabone won international acclaim for his research into trachoma. He was the first ophthalmic surgeon to be engaged by the World Health Organisation and worked in Taiwan, Indonesia and Iraq.
He started his medical career as a military doctor and was very nearly killed in the very first air raid of the war in 1940 when a bomb crashed on Fort St Elmo, where he was serving.
Dr Tabone had given evidence before Church officials in the case of the miraculous cure of Charles Zammit Endrich, one of his patients, who suffered a detached retina. That case led to the beatification (and later canonisation) of Dun Gorg Preca.
Dr Tabone founded the Medical Officers' Union, now the MAM and entered politics in the 1960s, contesting his first election in 1962 when he was nearly 50 years old. He was first elected in 1966.
President Censu Tabone greets President George Bush.As Minister of Labour he was in the forefront of the Borg Olivier government's battles with GWU militancy, particularly in the dockyard while as foreign minister, he had the task of restoring Malta's international standing after the Mintoff years. His staff quickly came to know about his boundless energy - he quickly dozed off while travelling, and was alert and ready for work as soon as he landed.
Censu, as he was affectionately known by all, was appointed President in 1989 and amid the political divisions of the time, was boycotted by the Labour Party. But such was his character, that he won the hearts and minds of all the people, to the extent that by the time his term ended, Labour had dropped its boycott, and actually asked if he could stay on. At President, he welcomed Presidents Bush and Gorbachev for their superpower summit in Malta and also welcomed Pope John Paul II on his first visit to the island as well as Queen Elizabeth, with whom he dedicated the Siege Bell Memorial in Valletta on the fiftieth anniversary of the award of the George Cross.
Last November Dr Tabone celebrated the 70th anniversary of his marriage to Maria.They had eight children, 19 grand children and 24 great grandchildren.
Dr Tabone had a mania for being punctual and, not surprisingly, he had a hobby of repairing clocks. He also attended daily Mass for most of his life.
PM SALUTES DR TABONE - STATE FUNERAL TO BE HELD
Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi in a statement from London, where he is on a two-day visit, recalled Dr Tabone as a person who was always close to the people and always practised what he believed in. He praised him as a family man, a medical doctor and a politician.
"He was always sensitive to the needs of those most in need," he said.
As Minister of Labour and Social Services in the 1960s, he had introduced new concepts to make it easier for people with a disability to find employment.
Dr Tabone had also strongly cotnributed to the two most important developments in the past 50 years - the country's independence and its membership in the European Union.
As Foreign Minister between 1987 and 1988, he worked tirelessly for Malta to acquire international credibility to be able to apply for EU membership.
His personality in public life climaxed when he became President, attracting the people's admiration.
Dr Gonzi said Dr Tabone's family had accepted his offer for a state funeral to be held.
STATE FUNERAL ON SATURDAY
The state funeral of former president Censu Tabone is being held on Saturday, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici said this evening.
Speaking in Parliament, which adjourned to Tuesday, as a sign of respect, Dr Mifsud Bonnici said the House will have a longer commemoration ceremony following the funeral.
He paid tribute to the late President who, he said, gave a lot to the people. President Tabone always had a clear mind and vision and was open to new ideas. He kept himself up to date with what was happening.
Dr Tabone was a respected and loved politician who believed in the policy of persuasion. He was a family man and an exemplary President.
He always acted properly, was affable, and never lost his temper.
PL MP Joseph Sammut said the Opposition shared the government’s sentiments.
Acting speaker Censu Galea also expressed condolences.
PN CONDOLENCES
The Nationalist Party paid tribute to Dr Tabone as a 'political gentleman who dedicated all his life for the service of the people as a doctor and a politician."
The party praised him for his humility and for always putting the people first.
The party also praised Dr Tabone for his service in the PN in some of the most difficult years of the country's recent history.
HUMANITY AND HUMILITY
Labour leader Joseph Muscat also expressed condolences on behalf of his wife and the Labour Party and praised Dr Tabone for having served "with humanity and humility".
SOCJETA FILARMONIKA SLIEMA CONDOLENCES
The Socjeta Filarmonika Sliema, of which Dr Tabone was president for 28 years until 1994, also sent its condolences
In 1994 Dr Tabone was named the society's President Emeritus Ad Vitam and the Sliema Band held a concert in his honour at the Republic Hall of the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta.
Condolences were also expressed by the Medical Association of Malta, the Malta Football Association, Alternattiva Demokratika and the Malta Union of Professional Psychologists.
See also
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20020422/news/censu-tabone-89-feels-too-many-people-are-living-in-the-past.177147
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pat muscat
Mar 15th 2012, 08:47
May he rest in peace. Condolences to the Tabone families.
Alfred Fenech
Apr 3rd 2012, 13:09
Two sides to every coin.......
Alison Bezzina
Mar 15th 2012, 08:28
Six years ago I had had the honour of speaking to the Tabones about a subject that not many would have delved into with the former President.
I wanted to find out what made his relationship with Maria tick throughout their (then) 63 years of marriage. Here’s what they had to say.
http://www.alisonbezzina.com/censu-maria-tabone-the10-secrets-of-their-love/
Reno Galea
Mar 15th 2012, 06:00
I had the great opportunity to meet and spend some time with Censinu and his wife Marija here in Canada back in the 80s. It was a short visit but an amazing experiense. I loved listening to him talking. Such a humble loving man. Another one of the great founders of our country is now in the arms of THE GOOD LORD that he loved so much here on earth.
Our deepest Condolences to his Wife Marija and Family.
Michael Pule
Mar 15th 2012, 01:14
Dr. Censu Tabone has all the qualities required to serve the people he loved so much, with unlimited dedication . Censu Tabone will remain known for his love of a united family and for his strong Christian values. We can never thank this gentleman enough for what he did to us all Maltese, irrespective of our political alliance. Farewell Dr Tabone and may God gives you your much deserved peace in His place. Malta lost a sublime patriot. Condolences to his dear wife & family.
Alfred Fenech
Apr 14th 2012, 17:56
Night and day.
Charles Sammut. (NY)
Mar 15th 2012, 00:42
As a young boy going through elementary school in Gozo Dr Tabone used to check every student's eyes for an eye disease known as Tracoma. I have to say that I did not look forward to having my eye-lids flipped. But Dr Censinu was sure dedicated not to miss anyone. He sure was a hard worker since he also was the only optometrist on Gozo. May he rest in Peace.
Clemente Zammit
Mar 15th 2012, 00:02
As Minister of Foreign Affairs, in March 1989 Dr Tabone appointed me Consul General of Malta for Victoria, a position in which I served for seventeen years. I was subsequently honoured to welcome him as President of Malta on his official visit to Melbourne. But I had known Dr Tabone long before then. Indeed, since my years of service within the Ministry of Health, starting in the early Sixties. I will always remember him as the wise, hard working and decent man that he was. My thoughts and prayers, and those of my wife, are with his wife Maria, his son Francis and the rest of the family. May he rest in peace,
Clemente Zammit
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Sandra Camilleri
Mar 14th 2012, 21:53
Another great loss for Malta. Our condolences to his wife Maria and all the TABONE family.
R.I.P. Censu -
You shall never be forgotten, always in our prayers.
Nathanael Grasso
Mar 14th 2012, 21:52
Malta tilfet persuna mportanti ghal pajjizna u se nhossuh hafna ghax m'hawnx persuna ohra bhalu biex tiddeskrivih. Hija persuna gentili u kien mahbub minn kull generazzjoni ta' nies. Grazzi, Censu. Il-Bambin jaghtih il-Glorja tal-genna. Strieh fil-paci.
Alfred Attard
Mar 14th 2012, 21:49
Condolences to family Tabone may this GREAT man rest in peace.
Albert Vella
Mar 14th 2012, 21:12
A very great loss of a great honorable humble person May you rest in Peace Censu . condolences to the his wife and family
Stephen Florian
Mar 14th 2012, 20:59
RIP
Mr Tonio Aquilina
Mar 14th 2012, 20:35
A glimpse from the past about Dr Censu Tablone
Before San Ġorġ Preca could be recognised a saint, however, two miracles had to be attributed to him. The first occurred in 1964 and concerned Charles Endrich, a man who had suffered from a detached retina and was about to go blind. As Dr Censu Tabone prepared to operate, Mr Endrich recovered when a shoelace which had belonged to Blessed George was placed beneath his pillow by friends.
Vincent Borg
Mar 14th 2012, 20:27
Our condolences to Family and especially his wife Maria.He was a great man.R.I.P Censu Tabone.
Joe Brincat-LL.D
Mar 14th 2012, 20:16
Lil Dr Censu Tabone kont sirt nafu meta kont ghadni tifel, u kont immur nghin il-quddies fl-isptar tal-ghajnejn Ic-Centralim il-Furjana. Dak iz-zmien kien hemm in charge Sister Leontina, Ghawdixja wkoll, u tista' tghid li bejniethom kienu jmexxuh sptar. Censu kien milqugh min-nies, ghax kien dejjem bit-tbissima fuq fommu.
Ftit snin wara kont dhalt l-isptar tal-ghajnejn jien, ghax wiehed kien spara vlegga, u kont wissejtu biex joqghd attent ghax kien se jolqot xi tfal. Konna hdejn il-Lyceum il-Hamrun. Dan qalli li kien qed jimmira lejn arblu. L-arblu laqtu imma l-gebla giet lura u laqtet lili f'ghajnejja. U spiccajt f'idejh.
Ghaddew is-snin u rgajna ltqajna. L-ewwel darba kienet lezzjoni li baqghet ghal hajti kollha. Kont immur fuq it-television bhala gurnalista tal-partit laburista u kien hemm iwiegeb Censu Tabone. Xi hadd kien tani nformazzjoni u qalli li Censu kien ghamel favur lil ibnu. Jien sparajtha fuq it-television. Imma kont zbaljat. Kien wegga' bil-kbir dak il-hin. Wara sirt naf li kellu ragun u l-ghada ghamilt apologija pubblika, ghax l-informazzjoni li kielli kienet zbaljata. Imma Censu kien ragel kbir bizzejjed li ma jibqax izomm f'qalbu, u konna sirna hbieb kbar.
Spiss konna nsiefru flimkien fuq xoghol tal-parlament, specjalment fil-Kunsill tal-Ewropa. Kont osservajt fih, xi haga li napprezza, li minkejja l-eta` dejjem zamm il-karattru ta' tifel zghir, u bit-tjubija ta' tifel zghir. Darba ghedtlu hekk, ghax kelli kunfidenza mieghu. U hu qalli li kienu hafna tfal fil-familja, u meta kien jitla` jara 'l ommu, kienet tghid "Gie jarani t-tifel iz-zghir" u kien qabez sew is-sittin ! Imma kellha ragun, ghax Censu dejjem baqa' bis-sbuhija ta' karattru ta' tifel.
Meta sar President, sfortunatament il-Partit Laburista ghamel boycott. Mhux se nidhol fl-istorja, ghax hemm background li forsi ftit jafu. Imma lili ma kenitx tinzilli li ma mmurx hdejh. Kont immur il-Palazz il-Belt u nghidilhom biex inkellmu "ghax hu kien it-tabib tal-ghajnejn tieghi".
Minghajr ma jaf lili ghamilli marka f'hajti forsi minghajr ma kien jaf. Meta t-tifla kienet se ssir tabiba, l-unika darba li staqsietni parir kien f'hiex tispeccjalizza. Ftakart f'Censu Tabone, u ssuggerejthilha l-optalmija. U hekk ghazlet.
Minn qalbi.....insellimlu.
Reinhard Azzopardi
Mar 14th 2012, 22:15
X'erba' kelmiet dawk Dr. Brincat! Tassew mill-qalb!
P Bonnici
Mar 15th 2012, 12:56
I really enjoyed reading this. It is really conciliatory, compassionate and understanding.
May Censu Tabone rest in peace.
Charles Bayliss
Mar 14th 2012, 20:08
I lived in Carmel Street, St Julian's - the street that Dr Tabone used to live in - for 6 years. I came to kniw him as a fine gentleman with a golden heart. He used to stop to anybody walking by. He was never in a hurry when he saw somebody walking towards him. For us in that street, he wasn't Dr Tabone but NANNU CENSU. He will be missed dearly by all, no matter what their political views. Deepest condolences to his wife and family. May God grant him eternal life.
arnold cassola
Mar 14th 2012, 20:07
He was a great man .... and humble despite his greatness. Not always a virtue of politicians.
B Attard
Mar 14th 2012, 19:46
Ragel ta valuri sodi bil-fatti... Rip
Evarist Saliba
Mar 14th 2012, 19:31
It was an honour, and a pleasure, to work with Censu Tabone when he was Minister of Foreign Affairs, and less directly when he was President. He led by example with energy and openness. He served Malta and further afield with distinction. May he be an example to others.
My condolences, and those of my wife, Julia, to Maria and the rest of the family.
Mr Charles.C. Brown
Mar 14th 2012, 19:24
Dr Tabone was a true statesman, liked by all,. and served Malta well in his long political career. RIP
Ronald Bowman
Mar 14th 2012, 18:54
Grazzi ta' kull m'ghamilt ghal pajizna Cens.
Censu was a perfect gentleman who dedicated his life to his family, profession and country. An exemplary Statesman. My sincere condolences to Mrs Tabone and all the Tabone family. May he Rest in Peace.
GEORGE CUTAJAR
Mar 14th 2012, 18:41
Dr. Tabone, along with the likes of Dr. Fenech Adami, Prof. de Marco, Dr. Mifsud Bonnici, Dr. Galea was one of the architects of the New Malta which rose from the ashes of Mintoff's Socialist Government. He was a great man. Affable, humble and yet very strong willed.
I had the privilege of knowing Dr. Cens on a personal level as he and his wife were family friends and I still vividly recall him visiting me at St' Luke's Hospital after I had to undergo an eye operation following the an accident I had in October, 1988. I can still hear his words of assurance after checking me out ringing in my ears - 'Don't worry George, all things point to your eye sight not being effected'. Those words were of immense comfort not only to myself but also to my family and for that I am and will always remain eternally grateful.
On his election to the Presidency he succeeded, without much difficulty, in casting away his political affiliations and becoming a unifying persona so much so he ended being hailed and eulogized after the initial boycott laid on by the GWU and Labour.
Thank you Dr. Cens for all you gave us. We will always remember you.
To Mrs. Tabone and all the Tabone family sincere condolences. Your loss is the Nation's loss.
George Mifsud
Mar 14th 2012, 18:37
A very true gentleman. Used to meet on Air Malta flights on his way to Brussels and used to have a very pleasant conversations. This goes back some 35 years ago and always spoke positive of the future. Rest in peace.
Steve Zammit
Mar 14th 2012, 18:33
RIP Dr. Censu Tabone
I still remember well when you came to give us a talk when I was still a kid in secondary school a few years back. You had such a cheerful character. Malta lost a gentleman today
anthony vella
Mar 14th 2012, 18:30
cajta li kont smajt fuq ex president tabone (nispera li mhux qed noffendi lil hadd), censu kien professur ta l-ghajnejn u darba mar wiehed ghandu bi problema tal-vista u peress li ex-president il-kelma q kien jippronunzja k, kien qallu biex jaqta il-qari u dan hasbu qed jidlu ghal curry u meta rega mar ghal vista u qallu li ma kienx kiel curry izjed lex-president qallu jien ghal qari qed nidlek,il-qari tal-kitba. Sahha u i-mulej itik il-mistrieh ta dejjem u j'alla il-politici tal-lum jiehdu l-ezempju tieghek.
Joseph Grima
Mar 14th 2012, 18:27
Sincerest condolences to the Tabone Family especially to his devoted wife Maria. Goodbye Cens. It's been good to now you.
anthony vella
Mar 14th 2012, 18:26
cajta li kont smajt fuq ex president tabone (nispera li mhux qed noffendi lil hadd), censu kien professur ta l-ghajnejn u darba mar wiehed ghandu bi problema tal-vista u peress li ex-president il-kelma q kien jippronunzja k, kien qallu biex jaqta il-qari u dan hasbu qed jidlu ghal curry u meta rega mar ghal vista u qallu li ma kienx kiel curry izjed lex-president qallu jien ghal qari qed nidlek,il-qari tal-kitba. Sahha u i-mulej itik il-mistrieh ta dejjem u j'alla il-politici tal-lum jiehdu l-ezempju tieghek.
James Wightman
Mar 14th 2012, 18:20
Regardless of political colour this was a a true statesman and gentleman that all politicians should aspire to.
Joseph Grech Attard
Mar 14th 2012, 18:16
May he rest in peace, AMEN.
Carmel Camilleri
Mar 14th 2012, 18:12
R.I.P Censinu as we know him in Gozo, he was a true gentleman.
R. Gauci
Mar 14th 2012, 17:25
Il-kamp mediku u politku Malti tilef wiehed mill-kbar tieghu, kien mahbub min kullhadd anke mill-'avversarji' tieghu niftakar nies bhal Mintoff u Alfred Sant li minkejja li kienu gejjin min kampijiet opposti dejjem fahhruh u rrispettawh.
Il-Mulej Jaghtih il-Mistrieh ta` dejjem u Jsabbar lil martu.
S.M. Cuschieri
Mar 14th 2012, 17:15
A true gentleman. A rarity indeed.
Judith Bugeja
Mar 14th 2012, 16:56
A true Politician and a Gentleman.
May God rest his soul and greet him in Heaven.
Heartfelt condolences to his beloved wife and family/
Vincent Grech
Mar 14th 2012, 16:53
tlifna gawra
Tarcisio Bonello
Mar 14th 2012, 16:52
RIP Censu
When you were President my then 3 year old son needed an eye operation and you can imagine how we as young parents panicked. My wife had phoned you and you had spent over an hour patiently calming her down and explaining what the procedure was. She still mentions it today - What president would take the time to do what you did ?! - On that day you were an Angel for her... and I'm sure that on this you are a saint in God's arms.
Pat Hobson
Mar 14th 2012, 17:47
As an ophthalmologist,hats off! He operated me in 1972, 40 years ago. RIP.
Anthony Schembri adami
Mar 14th 2012, 16:37
Censu was one of the most humble men Malta ever had! He strongly opposed and refused his second term as President even when Dr Sant, who had opposed his nomination now propsed his second term.
Deirdre Farrugia
Mar 14th 2012, 16:19
So so sad to hear this news. Dr Censu Tabone was my all time favourite President. He had such a kind face, so genuine, and clearly loved his nation and his people, not to mention his lovely big family. Will never forget his impromptu speeches, and his smile on the odd occasion I had the pleasure to meet him. Malta has lost a great man :(
Mark Caruana
Mar 14th 2012, 16:17
God bless this Maltese son and patriot. Give him the funeral he deserves. Malta lost one of its pillars. He was one of the architects of post war Malta who shaped us and made us what we are. Thank you Censu.
John M Grima
Mar 14th 2012, 15:57
My copndolences to Dr.. Tabone's family. Censu, was a great Maltese figure. May he rest in pease.
John Grima
O Kassar
Mar 14th 2012, 15:38
Malta lost a true son and gentleman who dedicated his life to others, both in the medical field and in politics. He sets an example to infants in politics of how one could work for the benefit of his country and his people, in silence, without expecting anything in return, remaining loyal to his colleagues and to his principles till the very end.
May he rest in peace. Sincere condolences to his family for this great loss.
Michael Bonnici
Mar 14th 2012, 15:24
There are many people in politics but few are politicians.
Dr.Censu Tabone was one of these few - A Christian Democrat Politician in the true sense.
A look at his speeches particularly his last speech in Parliament before becoming President of the Republic is ample proof.
I am proud that I knew him quite well as an ophthalamologist and as a colleague in Parliament.
Mrs. Maria Tabone, his sons, daughters and their families must be proud of having such a distinguished husband and father. It is our duty to pray for him for eternal rest.
Michael Bonnici - Haz-Zebbug
Thomas St John
Mar 14th 2012, 15:21
Lately we missed your presence at St Julian's Parish Church. We hoped that we might be seeing you once again praising the Lord together with your Dear Wife but now this is not to be. You are now next to the Lord, certainly interceding for your wife, family, friends and us Parishioners.
Condolences to Mrs Maria Tabone and Family.
RIP
Ms.D. Galea
Mar 14th 2012, 15:19
May he rest in peace and condolences for his family.
Alexander Pace Gouder.
Mar 14th 2012, 15:13
A GREAT family MAN. His Love for Gozo and St.Julians and all Malta came second to his family. Thank you Censu. Condolences go to all his family. Alex and family Pace Gouder. Also on behalf of Balluta Residents Association - Alexander Pace Gouder as PRO Balluta Residents Association.
R Axisa
Mar 14th 2012, 15:10
May he rest in peace! I considered him as a real gentleman, both on a professional and political basis!
Alfred Farrugia
Mar 14th 2012, 15:00
On behalf of my family and myself, I wish to extend sincere condolences to the family of President Emeritus Dr. Vincent Tabone. I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Tabone in the late 1960’s when he was Minister of Labour and was invited as the Guest of Honour of the Malta Automobile & Cycle Racing Association (MACRA) to inaugurate the first ever High Performance Motor Show at the Trade Fair Grounds in Naxxar.
I later had the privilege to work under his guidance when he was the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the late 1980’s. It was during his term in Office in 1988 that Malta launched the initiative at the United Nations in New York on the “Protection of global climate for present and future generations of mankind” (UN GA Resolution 43/53, 6 December 1988) based on the concept suggested by Professor David Attard and piloted at the UN by Ambassador Dr. Alexander Borg Olivier, with the full backing of President Emeritus Dr, Edward Fenech Adami, then Prime Minister.
Malta shall miss the kind of perfect gentleman, politician, Minister and President that Dr. Tabone was. May he rest in peace.
T Mifsud
Mar 14th 2012, 14:53
We will remember you Cens as always, apart from your great political career, by being present among the people, talking to the people, and like your colleague Guido, LISTENING to each and every person what he has to say, so much so that you remember their individual names!
Only Great People do that
Judith Desira
Mar 14th 2012, 14:51
R.I.P to a true gentleman ....my deepest sympathy to the family for their loss
John Micallef
Mar 14th 2012, 14:48
A person of faultless integrity and immense humanity.
Condolences to his family.
RIP
Elaine Refalo
Mar 14th 2012, 14:40
CONDOLENCES TO ALL THE FAMILY MY HE REST IN PEACE
Anthony Said
Mar 14th 2012, 14:39
A true gentleman who dedicated his life to family and country. May you rest in peace and earn the reward you so richly deserve.
Michael Sammut
Mar 14th 2012, 14:32
A true gentleman, great in many ways and yet humble and servant. My sincere condolences to all his family and friends.
Franklin Pulis
Mar 14th 2012, 14:30
Malta has lost another of its great sons, condolences to Mrs Tabone & all the family.
Marlon Harmsworth
Mar 14th 2012, 14:24
F'dan il-mument ta' soghba nwassal il-kondoljanzi lil-familja u lill-gheziez tieghu kollha.
Aghtih O Mulej il-Mistrieh ta' Dejjem.
d. attard
Mar 14th 2012, 14:23
A sad loss. A man that held on to respect no matter the pressures. He shall be missed...always in our prayers
I. Mercieca
Mar 14th 2012, 14:15
Kien statesman li ftit il-pajjiz ra bhalu. Niftakarni zghir meta kont niehu gost nisimghu jiddibatti fuq it-TV minghajr ma jitpaztas bhall bosta politici ta zmienu. Kien jitkellem bil-lingagg tal-poplu minghajr kliem bombastiku. Kien jifhmu kullhadd kelu biex ikun imkabbar ghal-achievements kbar li ghamel izda dejjem kien umli.
Hasra li nitilfu nies bhall-Censu ghax dan il-pajjiz ckejken ftit ghandu nies bhalu.
Issa nitolbuh ikompli jiehu hsiebna minn hdejn il-Mulej.
GRAZZI CENSU NIBQGHU GRATI LEJK U TIBQA MNIZZEL FL-ISTORJA TAGHNA BHALA RAGEL KBIR.
Andy Farrugia
Mar 14th 2012, 14:14
A great man has passed away. Heartfelt condolences to his family.
Alex Ellul
Mar 14th 2012, 13:59
Politicians of his calibre are hard to come by, there aren't any at the moment and I doubt if there ever will be. They don't make them like that anymore.
See you later Cens..
Susan Rizzo
Mar 14th 2012, 13:55
A truly wonderful man in so many ways! Condolences to all his family. RIP
Saviour Cachia
Mar 14th 2012, 13:54
@E. Zammit
Hadt gost naqra l-kumment tieghek dwar l-ET Censu Tabone. Kumment mill-iktar pozittiv. Waqt li nitolbu biex l-Mulej jaghtih il-mistrieh ta' dejjem u jfarrag lill-familja tieghu ghal din it-telfa kbira ( l-eta' ma tghoddx, li jghoddu l-istima u rispett li jkun igawdi persuna frott ta' ghemilu fis-socjeta' u fil-familja) napprezza frazi partikulari: "Minkejja t-taqlib u d-disordni politika li kellna fil-pajjiz, qatt ma' smajtu jlissen kelma jew frazi ta' mibgheda lejn l-avversarji tieghu."
Dan kien mertu kbir ghal Censu, ghaliex sfortuntament il-hdura fil-politika hija trademark negattiv li jhaddan dan il-pajjiz sabih taghna. Kemm hemm x'ghad irridu nitghallmu, ghalkemm fiz-zmien ta' Duminiku Mintoff u George Borg Olivier fis-snin sittin, il-politika qatt ma waqghet fil-livelli ferm dizappuntanti tal-lum.
Censu, strieh tat kontribut kbir lil pajjizek u l-familja.
Andrew Calleja
Mar 14th 2012, 13:53
An exemplary man both in his professional and private life. Heartfelt condolences to all his family - RIP
Charles Sammut
Mar 14th 2012, 13:50
The one and only Politician for the people...Honest,Humble and down to earth!!
May he rest in peace!
Angus Black
Mar 14th 2012, 13:41
What made Censu Tabone a great man?
He was humble - never seeking attention.
He was a servant of the people - never patronizing.
He was efficient both as a doctor or politician - always accepting any given role at any level.
He was a simple, decent politician - he treated everyone equally and with equal respect.
He was unassuming - never seeking roles at the expense of others - always ready to shoulder responsibilities thrust upon him.
President or not, he was dignified in any role, respected by all and Censu was his name.
You will be missed Cens, may you rest in peace.
Marianne Tabone
Mar 14th 2012, 13:39
Jalla l-Mulej jaghtih il-mistrieh ta' dejjem. Kien bniedem mill-ahjar u politiku minn dawk li ghamel hafna gid lil pajjizna. Konna qraba fil-boghod mieghu u ghalkemm qatt ma kont nafu personli naghti l-kondoljanzi lill-familja tieghu kollha minn qalbi. Permezz ta' din il-katina mieghu sirt naf lil xi hadd iehor li jigi minnu u sibt habiba gdida li napprezza hafna l-karattru sabih taghha. RIP
Nikhail Karl Spiteri
Mar 14th 2012, 13:29
Bniedem ta vera.
E Zammit
Mar 14th 2012, 13:25
Il-Mulej jaghtih il-mistrieh ta' dejjem.
Grazzi mill-qalb Censu, tal-gid li int ghamilt matul hajtek. L-aktar ma dawk li huma batuti u fqar socjalment. Jien kont ferm qrib tieghu fit-tmeninijiet. Kont narah kulljum u nista nghid li kont nitghallem xi haga gdida minghandu kulljum. Ragel kbir u ta' kellmtu. Minkejja t-taqlib u d-disordni politika li kellna fil-pajjiz, qatt ma' smajtu jlissen kelma jew frazi ta' mibgheda lejn l-avversarji tieghu.
Hemm hafna aktar esperjenzi sbieh li jien ghandi tieghu izda issa mhux il-mument, issa huwa l-mument li nitolbu ghal-ruhu sabiex il-Mulej jaghtih il-premju li zgur jixraqlu tal-hajja ta' dejjem.
Kondoljanzi lil martu Marija, l-uliedu u l-familjari tieghu kollha.
Victor Laiviera
Mar 14th 2012, 13:21
"he had the task of restoring Malta's international standing after the Mintoff years"
What a ridiculous and tendentious statement! How shameful of the author to try and use a news item like this to score cheap political points.
Mr David Ganado
Mar 14th 2012, 13:50
Look who is being ridiculous. Facts are facts and its useless denying them. Face reality once in your life Mr Laiviera.
Lawrence Camilleri
Mar 14th 2012, 14:03
Il-verita' toffendi. Grazzi Cens ta' dak kollu li ghamilt minkejja diffikultajiet enormi.
Reinhard Azzopardi
Mar 14th 2012, 14:30
@David Ganado
Face reality? Mela jafu kif? A week or so ago a blogger on this very site denied the fact that people were beaten by the police in the 80s!
Ms Maria Vella
Mar 14th 2012, 14:38
My God Mr. Laiviera give us a break for once. Show some respect towards a humble man who did so much for society.
Lanqas toqghod hdejn subajh iz-zghir ta' saqajh.
Charles Micallef
Mar 14th 2012, 14:43
Some simply cannot live with a daily dose of political dribble, the man was a president of all Malta and politically alienated comments have no place after this statesman's death!
Andy Farrugia
Mar 14th 2012, 14:43
Yet another ridiculous, cretinous comment from a wannabe revisionist. More to be pitied than censored.
Joe Vella
Mar 14th 2012, 14:44
Laiviera, the truth does hurt, does it? The TRUTH will continue to hurt until one face it. That is your prerogative.
John Micallef
Mar 14th 2012, 14:52
Mr. Laiviera - it's not cheap political points, it's stating the truth. Have you forgotten about the jokes the Italians used to make of Malta, like " Malta e la Valletta di Gheddafi"? Or foreigners' impression that Malta was a cummunist extension of North Korea and China?
Yes, Dr. Tabone and those following him had a hard task mending, or cleaning up, what was, safe to say, an unjust tarnishing exercise, but which was the result of the policies of the Mintoffian era.
S Micallef
Mar 14th 2012, 14:55
x'hadd daqshekk specjali minn Mintoff and the Labour party Mr. Laiviera? Kemm inti die-hard.
Mario Mifsud
Mar 14th 2012, 15:01
Get a life Laiviera!!!! Condolences to the Tabone Family. A truly great Man who will go down in history of the island as that 'A Great Man'.
laurent caruana
Mar 14th 2012, 15:23
Kondoljanzi lil familja Tabone. Mr.Laiviera taf tghid hekk?
anthony vella
Mar 14th 2012, 18:06
ghal darba tistaw tieqfu iddahlu l- politka fuq kollox,iva anke bil mewt irridu ninqdew qed nghid ghaz-zewg nahat isthu jekk tafu.kondoljanzi lil familja tabone, r.i.p.
j brincat
Mar 14th 2012, 13:21
RIP
My condolences!
(jb)
mario scerri
Mar 14th 2012, 13:18
RIP Dr Tabone u l-kondoljanzi lil qraba tieghu.
Charles Grima
Mar 14th 2012, 13:18
A great man, and one that no party can deny... A man for all seasons, and a loss to the political history of Malta. A state funeral for a much loved president is the very least.
Rest in Peace.
m. borg (slm)
Mar 14th 2012, 13:16
Condolences to the Tabone family.
John Pace
Mar 14th 2012, 13:13
RIP ghaziez Dr Tabone u kondoljanzi lil Mrs Tabone u lil familja kollha.
Il Giljanizi se jibqaw jiftakru fik u jzommuk fit talb taghom kif ninsab cert
se taghmle ukoll Malta kollha.
Grazzi ta' kull ma ghamilt f'hajtek ghal gid ta' Malta Dr Tabone.
Thelma Cilia
Mar 14th 2012, 13:12
Indeed one of the greatest gentlemen Malta has ever known. Sincere condolences to all his family. RIP Dr Tabone
Melvyn Mifsud LLD
Mar 14th 2012, 13:06
Much will be said about Censu Tabone in the coming days. And rightly so as his long public life has touched the lives of so many. And in different ways .. both nationally and internationally. Various adjectives will be used to describe the various qualities he possessed - which he did not keep for himself. But shared with others - enriching all whom he bumped into.and situations he dealt with.himself. Dear Maria and his immediate family members and those who were close to him, are also enriched by his way of serving.
INTEGRITY is a characterisitc that truly fits Censu Tabone's involvement in all he did - whatever the format.
Joseph Vassallo, (Bugibba)
Mar 14th 2012, 12:57
As fine a gentleman as any one could hope to meet.
His dedication to his medical profession was second to none.
His fatherly approach to his patients will always be remembered.
Sleep well, sir. You deserve the very best.
Reuben Vella Bray
Mar 14th 2012, 12:55
To Censu a Great Father and Leader to the Maltese Nation.
Words of our fathers teach us wisdom
Beyond the times of read and write
In oral tradition they bestow on us
Tenets and principles that guide our lives
Ways of our Fathers pave our future
Your reputation precede our coming
Your honorable ways insure our honor
Your courage and blessings lead us on
The memories of your leadership stay with us
Through the course and journeys of life
Identity of a nation is passed on by a good man like you
Through tenets and culture bestowed along
The care you gave to Malta nurture our lives
Through trials and travails life present
They carve a niche so that we might live
And who we are is who they’ve been
Deep in us they leave your presence
But we on our own must find our ways
To leave your mark and gifts of life
In the lives of generations yet to come
From heaven you look down at us
And see the ways of your presence
With Christ, who you loved so much
You see a Nation that looks up to you ,
and THANKS YOU CENS.
Reuben Vella Bray
Reinhard Azzopardi
Mar 14th 2012, 14:03
Beautiful words indeed. Bravo!
RIP Eccellenza!
Richard Galea
Mar 14th 2012, 12:49
Having deep moral insight......and an acute scientific vision is a rearity indeed.....Since my childhood I always looked up to this nobel man.
A.M. Galea
Mar 14th 2012, 12:43
Ghalkemm ma kontx naqbel ma xi punti tal-linja politika tieghu , ma nista ninsa qatt meta fl-1970 kont dhalt l-isptar fejn Dr.Censu Tabone kien wera gentilezza kbira biex nehhieli bicca azzar ta' wire brush li kienet dahlitli f'ghajnejja . Dan ma nsejtu qatt tant li meta kelli okkazzjoni fejn iltqajt mieghu meta kien President ta' Malta u kont semmejtlu dan il-kas , hu kien wera li kien ha pjacir hafna li jiena bqajt rikonoxxenti lejh .
Nixtieq nibghat il-kondoljanzi tieghi lis-sinjura Maria Tabone u l-familjari tieghu kollha . Jalla jistrieh fil-paci u il-Mulej jaghtieh dak li tant hadem ghalieh . Sahha Cens u strieh fil-paci .
Lino Cuomo
Mar 14th 2012, 12:41
Condolences to family Tabone.
Will remember you in our prayers at this moment of sorrow.
Anthony Mallia
Mar 14th 2012, 12:37
Recently it was announced that politicians should be close to people and should go to their houses. So please politicians don't go any further but study and follow the steps of this superb gentleman. He was such a nice person to talk to. I liked most his accent. I shall be there to pay my respect at his funeral because he and his wife attended the funeral of my father long time ago. Condolences to his wife and family. I am sure that you are already up there in heaven and please pray for us. Thank you Dr. Vincent Tabone.
Dunstan Crockford
Mar 14th 2012, 12:35
May Censu rest in Eternal Peace! Sincere condolences to his dearest Maria and all his dear family!
Rosalind Borg
Mar 14th 2012, 12:33
R.I.P. Dr. Tabone was an inspiring example of what a doctor & a politician should be and what the precious values of a Maltese family man are. My heartfelt condolences to his family. You're in my prayers
Charles Micallef
Mar 14th 2012, 12:33
The genuine smile on his face depicted the Man's attitude to life, both as a family man, proffesion and politics may he rest in peace and may God look after his family at this sorrowful time!
joe camilleri
Mar 14th 2012, 12:32
Extrodenery Gentlemen to all politions and families. RIP
Mr Luciano Busuttil
Mar 14th 2012, 12:31
admired as a politician but most of all as a man. condolences
Carmel (Nenu) Aquilina
Mar 14th 2012, 12:30
Insellimlek Għażiż Malti ta' Veru!
Insellimlek għażiż membru Parlamentari fidil lejn il-partit li tant ħabbejt u lejn il-partitarji tal-Partit Nazzjonalista!
Insellimlek għażiż Politiku, raġel ta' veru!
j'Alla tkun il-mudell tal-politiku onest Malti, biex kull-persuna fil-politika f'Malta timxi fuq l-eżempji u l-passi meqjusa, inteliġenti, ta'rispett u fedelta tiegħek, li imxejt bihom bl-akbar irġulija mimlija valuri, tull ħajtek kollha!
Grazzi Eċellenza!
Mr Hans Borg
Mar 14th 2012, 12:30
May your soul rest in peace Dr Tabone.
Mr Kevin Zammit
Mar 14th 2012, 12:25
they dont come like this any more
Condolences to the family
Angelo Vassallo
Mar 14th 2012, 12:21
A GREAT man for all seasons.
May he rest in peace.
Olaph Terribile
Mar 14th 2012, 12:16
HE Dr Tabone was a great politician, a respected Minister and most of all an exemplary Head of State. My condolences to his family.
Timothy Cachia
Mar 14th 2012, 12:14
RIP and thank you for all you've done to our country.
George Pullicino
Mar 14th 2012, 12:06
One last good bye Cens ! What a great loss for us all. Your life was dedicated to being of service to others, and cherishing your family who were so dear to you. May God comfort your family during this difficult time.
John Farrugia
Mar 14th 2012, 12:02
An extraordinary man - RIP !!
Karm Farrugia
Mar 14th 2012, 12:01
A man who bestowed respectability to local politics.
May he rest in peace - deservedly.
Peter Shaw
Mar 14th 2012, 12:01
RIP
Mr F J Brincat
Mar 14th 2012, 12:00
Commiserations. An admirable and honest man.
Anthony Caruana
Mar 14th 2012, 11:56
Much loved and respected R.I.P.
Reuben Vella Bray
Mar 14th 2012, 11:56
A man that has worked all his life for our country and his family.
A great General Secretary for the Nationalist Party.
A great Politician
A great Minister
and A wonderful President
May he rest in peace , now heaven has a Great Man .
Mr Michael Debono
Mar 14th 2012, 13:46
MAM was founded by Dr. Censu Tabon RIP.
Simone Gauci
Mar 14th 2012, 11:55
MALTA LOST A FORMIDABLE MAN GOD REST HIS SOUL DEEP CONDOLENCES TO HIS FAMILY
N P. Debono
Mar 14th 2012, 11:54
A truly honest and great man. May you rest in peace.
Mr ALBERT LEONE GANADO
Mar 14th 2012, 11:52
So sad to hear of his demise. A true gentleman of honour in all senses. Condolences to all his family
Pamela Hansen
Mar 14th 2012, 11:52
All those of us who spent their summers in Marsalforn as kids will be saddened at the news.
Charles Zammit
Mar 14th 2012, 11:52
One of the few gentlemen in politics RIP
Alex Coppola
Mar 14th 2012, 11:51
Malta lost a great Politician, a true Statesman, a formidable doctor and an exemplary family man. Condolences to all his family
Tony Busuttil
Mar 14th 2012, 11:48
HE Dr Tabone gave an example to other polititians that after he retired from his presidency he never commented again about politics. that makes him a true President of all the people.
Carmel Tabone
Mar 14th 2012, 12:29
You are very right.
Victor Laiviera
Mar 14th 2012, 16:00
A very good point.
G Mangion
Mar 14th 2012, 11:48
Rest in peace Censu Tabone Our condolences His Family.
G. Mangion.
vella m
Mar 14th 2012, 11:44
RIP to a to a great Man and a giant of a Politician.
Simon Cachia
Mar 14th 2012, 11:43
Ghawdex, b'mod partikolari, tilef iben iehor mill-hafna li ghamlu gieh lil pajjizna. Il-Mulej jaghtih il-mistrieh ta' dejjem.
Maria Debono
Mar 14th 2012, 11:43
May The Lord receive you and embrace you, Dr Censinu
Miriam Attard
Mar 14th 2012, 11:43
Rest in peace
Thanks for the good work you did for our country
jimi Xerri
Mar 14th 2012, 11:42
Malta has lost a Great man....
A man with a sound family life, of sound principles, who transmitted his joy for life to others through his modest words.
RIP Nannu Cens
Margaret Galea
Mar 14th 2012, 11:42
Rest in Peace Censu Tabone, a great Politician and Statesman, condolences to his family
Oswald Spiteri
Mar 14th 2012, 11:42
A GREAT MALTESE NATIONAL and a great gentleman. May you rest in peace and condolences to the large Tabone Family.
Theresa D'Amico
Mar 14th 2012, 11:42
May he rest in Peace
J. Tanti
Mar 14th 2012, 11:42
RIP Dr. Tabone. Condolences to the family.
Paul Azzopardi
Mar 14th 2012, 11:40
The best example of a proper politician, both party members and back benchers should take a leaf from his book. God rest his soul.
Doriette Rizzo Naudi
Mar 14th 2012, 11:40
A gentleman of many facets...a hero to emulate...irreplaceable. May he now reap the rewards he so amply deserves and may the good Lord keep his hands on his wife and family, that they might find the solace they require.
J Busuttil
Mar 14th 2012, 11:40
Thank you for all you sacrificed for your country and your leadership but most of all for your example as a family man.
May you rest in peace.
Francis Saliba M.D.
Mar 14th 2012, 11:39
Trachoma and tracheotomy are unrelated.
Maria Brincat
Mar 14th 2012, 11:38
Malta's lost yet another great man!
RIP
Peter Zahra
Mar 14th 2012, 11:37
A Great state man indeed !! He has contributed in every aspect with great dedication.
RIP
Adrian E. Camilleri
Mar 14th 2012, 11:36
How extremely sad! A great statesman indeed! Sincere deep respects to Dr. Tabone"s entire family, but mostly to his wonderful spouse, Maria. Dr. Tabone fully deserves a great monument in the centre of St. Julians where one and all can remember this wonderful Maltese statesman, doctor and family man. A gentleman from start to finish. A great loss to his family, and to Malta. May the Almighty grant him eternal rest. A great loss!
jane deguara
Mar 14th 2012, 11:34
god bless him, he was such a nice man.
Adrian Camilleri
Mar 14th 2012, 11:31
A Great Man.........Politicians should take his example.....
RIP
J.C. Borg
Mar 14th 2012, 11:28
May this great man rest in peace!
isabella vella
Mar 14th 2012, 11:27
He is surely enjoying the presence of His Saviour!! What an exemplary man, father, politician and all!!!!
Deep condolences to all his family - they have reason to miss him!!
twanny borg
Mar 14th 2012, 11:27
dan veru kien ragel ta' veru. strieh fil-paci.
Steve M. Engerer
Mar 14th 2012, 11:25
May you rest in peace....
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