Gonzi: calling an election would be the easy way out
The Prime Minister tells Herman Grech that he is determined to serve out a whole five-year term of office – just as long as that decision remains in his own hands.
Many were surprised that Franco Debono helped to bring down Carm Mifsud Bonnici. Were you?
Unfortunately I wasn’t. He was clear about his position. He was antagonistic and critical of the minister. As I always try to do, for several months I tried to find a solution right until the last minute.
So did you make contact with him on Wednesday?
Yes. I also made contact through third parties. We were meant to meet a week earlier, but he didn’t show up.
What was the solution? To offer him something to buy his silence?
Certainly not. This is not an open-air market. But if an MP feels he can contribute and wants more space, why not, provided he works in line with party policy.
Did Debono want to be appointed Leader of the House?
He didn’t tell me that.
Do you think he wanted the post?
That’s a question you have to ask him. A lot was said by him to a lot of people: that he wanted the post, that he didn’t want the post, that he would have refused it if it were offered. It wasn’t offered to him, however. In any way.
Why did you replace Tonio Borg as Leader of the House last January only to reappoint him last week?
The January reshuffle meant the justice ministry was transferred to another minister and I wanted Carm Mifsud Bonnici to assume responsibility for parliamentary affairs. After his resignation, I had to redistribute responsibilities. Tonio Borg has the necessary experience for the job.
Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi. Photo: Matthew MirabelliBut Dr Mifsud Bonnici quit his post as Leader of the House before the vote of no-confidence. To many, it appeared as a move to appease Dr Debono.
One of Labour’s unjust accusations was that Carm (Mifsud Bonnici) was manipulating the parliamentary agenda to suit his means. Joseph Muscat has lost his dignity because of these personal attacks. He is the biggest loser in all this.
Many would say the government is the biggest loser.
The government has done what is right at all stages of this unhappy story. I admired Carm Mifsud Bonnici who was prepared for all eventualities. He fulfilled his duties till the very end. He consigned his ministerial car the minute he walked out of Parliament. When I called him the following day he didn’t realise it was me because he had even given up his ministerial phone. This is an example of sincerity which belittles Muscat.
You keep mentioning Joseph Muscat, but it was ultimately one of your MPs who tilted the balance. Aren’t you angry with him?
If you’re driven by anger in politics you will make one mistake after another. Look at Dom Mintoff and Alfred Sant’s periods as Prime Minister. Every elected MP should have the Prime Minister’s attention. But let’s keep everything in context. We’re discussing these issues while everyone outside Malta is discussing disasters in their countries.
Franco Debono told The Times: “We were so close and yet so far.” Should you as a Prime Minister be involved in such horse-trading with a backbencher?
There was no horse-trading. I tried to understand how Franco (Debono) could contribute and identify space for him to work, while coming in line with the government. But ultimately he is an MP, and there was no reason for a no-confidence vote in Carm Mifsud Bonnici. I hope people understand just how false Labour’s motion has been. One of the reasons given was because three police cars failed their VRT test. The criticism was superficial and that’s why I can’t understand why one of our own MPs voted in favour of a motion which is unjustified and hypocritical. This has upset me greatly.
Why did you take on the home affairs ministry yourself? Is there nobody competent in your group to take it on?
I respect our democratic institutions, so once the vote was taken there were three consequences. Muscat went on TV right away thinking I’d ignore the outcome of the vote. Firstly, Carm (Mifsud Bonnici) had his resignation letter ready, which I sadly had to accept. Secondly, I called a vote of confidence for Monday. Thirdly I had to pass Carm (Mifsud Bonnici’s) responsibilities to others and in the circumstances it made sense for me to take over home affairs. There are important immediate issues which need to be tackled on immigration.
Does this mean someone else will be given the post once these meetings are over?
We will see. We need to concentrate on Monday’s debate.
You’re being criticised for taking on the Home Affairs Ministry not to upset anyone in your group.
No. The Home Affairs Ministry is one of the most important, delicate and demanding. It would be irresponsible if I had to decide that way not to upset anyone.
Aren’t you busy enough?
The reality is that in January’s reshuffle I appointed three new ministers and offloaded major parts of my portfolio, like environment and social policy. My first duty is to the country.
But for continuity’s sake, couldn’t you have appointed Home Affairs Parliamentary Assistant Beppe Fenech Adami to the post? Many believe he’s competent enough.
The first thing I did on Thursday was to meet up with the ministry staff together with Beppe (Fenech Adami). I hope he continues doing his duties well.
But not as minister?
We will see. We have a lot of competent people in our group who can assume ministerial responsibilities – but those are decisions I take in the interest of the country.
Is Franco Debono still a parliamentary assistant?
Yes, he is.
Does he report to work?
He does his work like other parliamentarians. But more importantly, it’s not about whether Franco (Debono) is still parliamentary assistant, it’s about Monday’s vote.
Can you continue working with him in your team?
In politics you need to work with everyone, including the opposition. (Joseph) Muscat has taken the wrong decisions when the interest of the country required otherwise. His main aim is to bring down the government...
...with the help of one of your MPs.
Anybody. In the eight years I’ve been Prime Minister, the Labour Party has been playing the same tune – political uncertainty, early elections...
In an interview with The Sunday Times last January, you accused Dr Debono of acting this way because he wanted to become a minister? Do you still think the same?
Unfortunately, what should be a natural desire for a politician appears to be too strong.
You persist in keeping such a pacific tone, days after one of your own MPs managed to bring down one of your most seasoned ministers.
In politics and everyday life you can’t take action when you’re angry. I can’t afford to do that. If I make mistakes, thousands will suffer...
...or lose Monday’s vote.
No. If I lose that vote I will simply bow my head to Parliament’s decision. It’s better for me to suffer than endanger thousands of families. If everything around us was calm, there might be more flexibility. A mistake by someone in my position can put this country back years. I will do my utmost to remain calm.
Onto the vote of confidence, Franco Debono said he will not vote against the government. Will you call an election if he abstains?
I will not speculate because it would be a mistake. I hope there will be a clear vote in favour of the government.
Constitutionally you can continue governing...
...that’s not the issue. I want a clear vote to know the government has the majority to permit it to move ahead with stability. On Wednesday, everyone was speculating about Dr Mifsud Bonnici’s vote.
Don’t you think the public has the right to know what you would do if the vote of confidence goes through with the Speakers’ vote?
I will decide when I know the result.
What about the political ramifications? You’re losing parts of the car as you drive along. Everyone’s expecting a long parliamentary summer recess; since January Parliament hasn’t approved any laws. In this economic scenario is it tenable to continue governing this way?
The laws that need to be passed have all been enacted.
Like Croatia’s EU membership bid and the Greek bailout.
There were also motions related to the EU that have passed. As well as the Budget measures, related laws were implemented, the Special Purpose Vehicle... Parliament has met at the same rate as previous years.
Parliament is often meeting to discuss crises created by one of your own MPs.
Perceptions are different from reality. One of the most important laws relates to education. The opposition first declared it would vote in favour but then decided it was a moneyBill. It ended up voting in favour. Laws in Parliament are implemented even without divisions. The government does not have a backlog in its legislative programme.
If the vote of confidence goes through does it mean it’s business as usual? Will you ignore the Debono factor?
I have to recognise the serious political implications of what happened on Wednesday. But I do need to take into consideration the importance of avoiding an early election. If I’m forced to call an election, so be it. But I have been tasked by the electorate to carry out a five-year programme and I will continue to try to do this. I would naturally bow my head if there is a vote of no-confidence in the government.
Economic stability is essential, but many would argue that so is political stability.
Yes, I can’t ignore that – but let’s keep it in context. Labour claims we had four-and-a-half years of political instability but then we have among the best economic results in Europe. We need to give families what they need, not newspaper front pages – work, health, pensions... Though some see politics as the be-all-and-end-all, my priorities are jobs, factories, investment... Our track record on work, schools, the hospital, quality of life speaks for itself despite the political instability of this legislature and the previous one.
You’re being criticised for prolonging calling an election because the party is suffering heavily at the polls.
It’s correct to say we’re lagging behind at the polls. But this is not the issue at all. If the PN wins the vote of confidence, it has the moral duty to continue governing.
We will not shirk our responsibilities. Sometimes the easy way out is to go for an election. Fortunately for this country, my party has never gone for easy solutions.
So you’re saying you are prepared to run the whole term.
I’m not just prepared, I’m determined to run the whole term – as long as that decision is in my hands.
So it would only be a vote of no confidence which would unseat this government.
That would definitely unseat this government.
The only thing?
That would definitely unseat this government – which is a different answer.
Regardless, the election is approaching. What is the PN doing to ensure it fields candidates who will remain in line with the party?
That has always been the case and will remain so – now more than ever because politics is changing. Our candidates need to be more involved than ever before. Our entry into the EU brought about major changes, you need technical skills more than ever.
This is why the Labour leader and his main speakers worry me – they’re so superficial.
Worse than that, I’m being told of wild promises Labour is making to developers that permits would be issued, while environmental groups are being told otherwise.
But turning to your party, how can you ensure you don’t have another Franco Debono in your midst?
You have to be careful. We need to have a good selection process, where names are approved in the executive committee.
Do you think Franco Debono should be a PN candidate at the next election?
It’s the executive committee which decides on all candidates.
What do you think?
My personal opinion doesn’t make a difference and I shouldn’t express it. During the divorce debate, I told nobody how I would vote to leave everyone free to do as they please. Unlike Labour, when we hold a free vote, it really is a free vote.
This legislature will remain known for the Debono factor. How much energy have you wasted on him?
This legislature will remain known for the way Malta created jobs in this dreadful economic scenario. History will take note of this, other things are forgotten. History will show the importance of leaders taking important decisions, even unpopular ones.
The fact that we took certain decisions meant we dented our popularity, but we saved the country. We joined the EU in 2004 and the euro in 2008, and took tough decisions to bring the deficit down when the international economic environment was not good.
How difficult was it to deal with your own team?
Not easy at all. It was a challenge like the others. But did I, or my predecessor, have a single easy job?
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Mr Lawrence Mifsud
Jun 19th 2012, 15:39
Then, just do it!
Pippo De Marco
Jun 4th 2012, 08:43
Gonzi is frightened about the damage a Labour government might do, and his concerns are valid, but what he fails to grasp is that many dissatisfied PN voters see Gonzi as the root of the problem. He is driving more people towards PL than Joseph Muscat is attracting.
j brincat
Jun 4th 2012, 07:10
"Sometimes the easy way out is to go for an election".
Wonders of wonders!
So it has nothing to do with closing the gap which is currently separating the PL from the PN?
"Fortunately for this country, my party has never gone for easy solutions"
What solution was it when the utility bills were exorbitantly raised without any social assessment being made
throwing many households into financial difficulty. When they did not pay their bills their electricity supply was switched off. And please do not blame all this to the international cost of fuel!
(jb)
j brincat
Jun 4th 2012, 06:58
"There was no horse-trading. I tried to understand how Franco (Debono) could contribute"
Really?
Not the impression that was given!
(jb)
Mark Cocker
Jun 4th 2012, 06:09
Dear Prime Minister, tomorrow is the second time, if I did not lose count, that the goverment is facing a vote of no-confidence this year.
This time you are seeking a 'clear' result. Why didn't you treat the one before in the same manner?? Is it because you are sure that fd's mission is accomplished and he will not abstain??
Why didn't you tie your goverment to dr. carm's vote like you did to dr.austin's vote?? Both of them have important portfolios.. both are highly esteemed by you and your party. So why did you use different measures??
Is there something fishy?? Is this the true picture or just a farse?? Or was there someone else who wanted dr.carm out of office and fd is just an actor in his panto?? It is obvious to have these thoughts.. these last six months were a pity and a waste of tax-payer's money in mp wages!!
It is already June.. and the only two votes passed during this year were the SUV and the budget issue.
The SUV is the way the eu will bless you for hiding the expense on the cement block and aquarium in our beloved capital.
The budget vote is a correction of €40 million!! The opposition had already pointed out the anomaly way back in November / December, but your goverment made fun of it!!
You are only obeying your big brother.. and you are calling this a victory!!
Mary Ann Borg
Jun 3rd 2012, 23:46
Il-laburisti ghajjew jistennew. Tiftakru meta kien hemm l-ewwel vot ta' sficudja f'Austin Gatt? Hasbu li se jaqa l-gvern u anke t-tinda hdejn id-dar tal-hgieg ippreparaw. Biex umbghad hargu kollha mill Parlament jahbtu ma xulxin bid-daghdiha li kellhom. Issa tant ghajjew li anke l-vot ta' sfiducja ta' ghada m'ghadu jeccitahom. Ga bdew ibassru li ta' ghada se tkun konferma ohra li Franco mhux se jwaqqa l-gvern, u allura se jkollhom jistennew sakemm ikun il-hin.
Dan kap tal-Partit Nazzjonalista, u kif qal il-PM, l-ehfef triq ghalih hu li jsejjah elezzjoni. Qed jithabat biex imexxi skont it-terminu mghoti lilu mill poplu Malti. Dan mhux xi kap Lejburist bhal Alfred Sant li harab mal-ewwel glieda li holoq hu stess. U dan mhux kap bhal Mintoff li ukoll harab mill poter fl-1958 meta rrizenja fi 23 ta' April. Dan hu Lawrence Gonzi, li rebah l-ahhar elezzjoni kontra dak kollu mistenni. Dan hu l-PM Malti u Nazzjonalist li filwaqt li l-Ewropa u l-bqija tad-dinja ghaddejjin minn krizi, ahna, iva ahna l-Maltin, Lejburisti u Nazzjonalisti qed jirnexxilna nkabbru l-ekonomija b'iktar impjiegi u investimenti godda. Dan hu Prim Ministru li iktar ma jkunu difficli l-problemi iktar isib energija biex jeghlibhom u jdawwarhom f'opportunitajiet li qed jissarfu f'gid u jhallu lil Lejber triq wahda biss - dik li jpingu kollox ikrah u jinqdew b'MP Nazzjonalista biex forsi ma jibqghux fl-oppozizzjoni.
William Caligari
Jun 4th 2012, 09:18
Bil-"meeting" tieghek qeghdin f' 2012 bqajt fejn kont.Ejjew innehhu dan l-ghanqbut u nharsu lejn il-gejjieni
b'aktar ahwa Maltin.Jaqghu ghalik tal-labour mhux Maltin ukoll? Tahseb li m'huma kapaci ghal-xejn.Dan
huwa l-izball tieghek Mary Ann Borg!!!!!
M. Grech
Jun 3rd 2012, 23:26
The PM is now sure of himself and banking on full support by all of his own MPs. Definitely no abstentions this time and that is it! Who would now dare to challenge the whole PN lot? Business as usual from next Tuesday on. Maybe we can then forget all about the actors in this drama and have some months of peace!
Lawrence Fenech
Jun 3rd 2012, 22:45
Gonzi ghazel "the hardest way" biex jasal ghal "the easiest way out" jalla isibha.
E Bonnici
Jun 3rd 2012, 22:34
I find it rather ironic that we are being constantly harangued at by the PM, trying to convince us that this is not the right time to call an early election.
I tend to agree very much about this. What I would like to comment about is the fact that it seems that ironically the PN has forgotten what they actually did way back in 1998, when they voted with Mintoff against the Cottonera project planned by the then Labour governmen.
It was all a political farce cause as soon as they were re-elected, one of the first projects was to develop the Cottonera. Was this not a very early election being called after only 22 months?
Correct me if I'm wrong but this time round although I repeat, I do not agree with early elections, I only say that what goes around comes around.
pat muscat
Jun 3rd 2012, 22:27
Who is going to believe you that calling an election is the easy way out: it is the most difficult...... something you do not want at all cost; even though its costing us , credibility ,investment, stability and direction!
M Saliba
Jun 3rd 2012, 22:23
If the vote of confidence goes through with the Speakers’ vote?
Dr Gonzi says: ' I will decide when I know the result.'
So Dr Gonzi considers to stay in power without having a clear parliamentary majority.
J. Mifsud
Jun 3rd 2012, 22:19
Dr Gonzi should be honest with us, he will not call an early election because as Austin Gatt said the longer they postpone the election the bigger the chance of winning the next election. According to Austin Gatt the the PL had a large advantage over the PN but the PN is narrowing the gap.
m. borg (slm)
Jun 3rd 2012, 21:29
I ask our illustrious, altruistic Prim e Minister one simple question:
Why did you make the PL's motion against Austin Gatt as a collective responsability, whilst that of Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici a simple indivdual's responsability?
Was it because you see CMB as a threat to your position after the next general elections when you have to shoulder the responsability of the thrashing you'll be getting at the polls.?
Or is it, that unlike you and Austin Gatt , CMB is not made of ARROGANT stuff and is thus considered a push over.?
M Saliba
Jun 3rd 2012, 21:25
If the vote of confidence goes through with the Speakers’ vote?
Dr Gonzi says: I will decide when I know the result.
So Dr Gonzi intends to stay in power without having the parliamentary majority backing him.
m. borg (slm)
Jun 3rd 2012, 21:25
"Gonzi: calling an election would be the easy way out"
What a man!!!
Easy way out of what Mr gonzi may one ask?
Victor Calleja
Jun 3rd 2012, 20:39
It’s better for me to suffer than endanger thousands of families.
Endanger thousands of families. What do you mean Mr. prime minister.
Have you been given a mandate from the Above to rule this country forever?
Are you the only person in Malta to keep thousands of families happy and without any perils?
Can't you see that you are being naive.
Are we going to end in a ditch if you miss the next train?
Please remember the wise phrase. The king is dead long live the king.
Come down from the clouds above and don't ever think you are the only one.
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 3rd 2012, 20:32
I think Dr. Gonzi is quite balanced in this interview, and, he has a few valid points on superficiality. What worries me is the part that says that there is no backlog in legislature, because I have been complaining about some, and, it means that my complaints are unheard "up there".
Marco Bonello
Jun 3rd 2012, 19:27
@Eddy Privitera
What track record did Dr. Eddie Fenech Adami have before he became prime minister in 1987 ????????????
Are you serious? Dr. Eddie Fenech Adami leaded a party in opposition at times where democracy was threatened and its supporters suffered violence. His family himself suffered violence. The easiest way out of the situation for him would have been to call for revenge. God knows what could have happened if he did so.
Instead he always appealed his supporters to keep calm and not react to violence with violence. This is the track record of Dr Eddie Fenech Adami before 1987. When the moment for him to take a decision came, he took it and it proved to be the right one. He took the right decision in a very difficult moment for him and his party. This is the track record of Eddie Fenech Adami before 1987, that of taking the right decision for the sake of national interest, a decision inspired not by emotion but by common sense and firm catholic values.
When in 1987 the people elected Dr Eddie Fenech Adami Prime Minister for the second time, they knew that they would have had a Prime Minister taking the right decisions in the sake of their wellbeing.
Eddy Privitera
Jun 3rd 2012, 20:23
Marco Bonello: What I was referring to is a track record AS A PRIME MINISTER NOT AS LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION !!! Dr. EFA had not been a prime minister. Still nobody could say that because he had never been a prime minister, so no one should trust him to be a good prime minister once he wins the election, just as GonziPN propagandists are saying about Dr. Muscat ! That was my point which you compltely misunderstood. Or understood very well, but did your best to spin the usual GonziPN propaganda !
Frans Aguis
Jun 4th 2012, 00:58
Violence and political discrimination were still very much present during EFA's legislature.We can thank Dr.Sant for putting an end to that, one of his few contributions
Maria Vassallo
Jun 3rd 2012, 19:20
Iz-zmien jaghtina parir, PC.
Ha tigi elezzjoni generali u tara min se jkun fil-Gvern.
X'sorpriza se tieghu!
Tinsiex il-PN se jkun f'pozizzjoni li jkun nehha l-hmieg morali li ngabar f'dawn l-ahhar snin!
Il-miskien huwa JM: nittama li qed jinduna bil-konfoffi ta' madwaru.
Tinsewx x'ghamlu lil AS.
Eddy Privitera
Jun 3rd 2012, 20:26
XI hmieg nehha GonziPN ? U x'konfoffi huma ?? Int qed tghix f'Malta jew fil-qamar Maria Vassallo ?????
Vince Piscopo
Jun 4th 2012, 05:56
This is wishful thinking or you might be dreaming of GonziPN in wonderCastille! On what basis should this government be trusted for re-election?!! On losing control and leadership over his cabinet? On asking us to make personal sacrifices while LG and his ministers pocketed a hefty increase in remuneration? For not keeping his promise on decreasing utility bills? For not keeping his promise on maternity leave? For not keeping his promise on taxation? By losing contact with the people and a few months before an anticipated GE a public dialogue minister was appointed? And here I ask why did PN "open its doors" now unlike JM as he was open to all as from his very first day at the helm? Why wasn't the "myvoice initiative" be launched at the outset of this term? And what about political instability; is today's clear vote of confidence a new benchmark set by the PM meaning he will no longer accept any abstentions? There is much more to say but I'm sure this is just about enough to say that this government has done nothing to retain or even more so increase its hair-line maggority obtained in the last GE.
Francis Grech
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:53
Our prime Minister Gonzi remind me as a( man of all season)what ever happen he is always there and always in the right if he think he is that good in every thing and still has a lot of PN followers why not call an earlier election if he have the courage like Alfred Sant did,only than he will find out if he is still has any followers and get it over with.
Angus Black
Jun 4th 2012, 01:19
Simply because Gonzi faces problems and finds solutions. Alfred Sant ran away from the problem he had, mostly because he did not know how to compromise and bring Mintoff on his side.
Mintoff did what he did not because he wanted anything in return or a ministry. Franco Debono does what he does because he wants more, he wants a ministry and he is not voting on issues, he is voting against his colleagues because he wants their job and up to a few months ago, thought he was capable of dislodging Gonzi from the Party leadership. Mintoff knew what he wanted, Debono is delusionary.
S. Caruana
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:51
Dr.Gonzi bdejt il-legislatura b'maggoranza RELATIVA u issa anke din tlift, ghax lis-speaker huwa persuna li mhix rapprezentanza tal-poplu.Thabilx rasek oqghod hemm kompli pappija int u l-bella kumpanija PERO m'int taghmel xejn inqas minn dak li ghamel Gvern Laburista tat- tmennijiet, li skond ir-regoli kien legittimu u moralment u matematikament skadut.
M Saliba
Jun 4th 2012, 05:53
Il-promo GonziPN ma tantx għadu jissemma imma il-persuni li ffurmaw GonziPN għadhom hemm. La darba jgħaddi l-vot ta' fiduċja iffisser li GonziPN jibqa' jmexxi sa l-elezzjoni li jmiss u anke wara jekk il-PN ikun elett.
Robert Caruana
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:33
Dan Prim Ministru Kbir. Prosit.
M. Bezzina
Jun 4th 2012, 06:58
Fil Falliment ta Malta iwa Kbir!!
Paul Caruana
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:24
Theatrics aside, the PM knows too well he cannot call an election immediately, if he wants to have a chance at re-election. He has no choice except to grin and hang on grimly to power, hoping that public opinion will eventually turn in his favour, before he has to call it.
Seen from this perspective, accommodating Franco Debono's demands is a small price to pay for maintaining executive power for just a bit longer....
Susan Cassar
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:54
If you were PM wouldn't you do the same? If the public chose you to serve 5 years why should you listen to false acusations to serve less?
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 3rd 2012, 20:35
I think Dr. Gonzi gave a different explanation within the article; he seems to think that he has no confidence in a Government run by someone else, for example the Labour party. It is sad to note such political issues, because it brings me to realize my worst fears, that our country may be run by incompetent politicians if this party were to drop.
M Grima
Jun 4th 2012, 07:39
@Susan Cassar
Where were you back in 1998 when after 22 months the PL government was toppled with the help of Mr. Mintoff. The PN has the divine right to govern for the full legislature, yet others cannot?
Joseph Camilleri
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:22
We do not need an election, GonziPN was elected for 5 years, and 5 years he will do. The truth is that our country is doing well, more people are employed, and economy growing.
The truth is that people who grumble are those people who are lazy and don't want to do nothing, like I saw on super one and I quote 'jien ma jaqbillix nahdem ghal 50 euro aktar fil gimgha, missu jzid il pagi imbghad nibda nahdem'
IS THIS THE PARTY AND THE MENTALITY WE WANT IN GOVERNMENT?! NO THANK YOU JOSEPH MUSCAT!
Thomas Mifsud
Jun 3rd 2012, 19:29
Yeah we're doing well Mr. Camilleri. Very Well. No One's struggling and everyone is doing well. Just guessing, are you writing from your big villa at Madliena? And do you ever talk to middle-class people?
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 3rd 2012, 20:36
We're not doing so well Mr. Camilleri, but perhaps you live on your own island, is it Melita?
A Dimech
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:17
He is continously blaming Joseph Muscat for his oen problems - yet he does not see that it is hiw "own" people who have fueled the issues which he is facing. OR better, he is not able to manage his own team, and blaming Muscat for it.
It his team was compact - PL's motions in parliament would have easily been defeated....
But we all know that his is team is divided - with many disagreeing with him..
Maryanne Camilleri
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:16
With due respect, an easy way out is clinging to power until the very end not calling an election for Gonzipn. The arrogant Gonzipn clique has so much to lose if it calls an election this year. Various organisations even Pn leaning ones and government members of parliament have brought this to our attention.'My Choice', 'My Voice' and other future propoganda will not repair this instability.
'Il-wicc tost' as quoted by our Prime Minister is not the Opposition's motion of last week but the 500 Euros extra per week given to his ministers and himself behind the public's back.
Joseph Arpa
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:07
uuu zguuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr... the easy way out of the PM chair you are so keen to cling to!!! Do people really believe this blablabla??
George Azzopardi
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:00
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Gonzi: calling an election would be the easy way out ..
u dan lil min irrid ibbellaha din ... hallina!!!!
Mario Cassar Laudi
Jun 3rd 2012, 17:52
I think our PM has a difficult and delicate task at hand in governing under these situations. It would have been easier for him, to step down and call an election, but a much more difficult task was chosen. The task of governing a country through all the turmoil around us, and not giving in to the tantrums of tha PL or any MP. I would hate to see this country fall in the hands of inexperienced people, who promise us everything in order to obtain the big job. It is a very different story to govern successfully as our PM is doing, then just mud slinging from the opposition. Many of us remember the two years PL governed the country ....to nowhere. This is not a matter of hoping that a new government would be better...results are worked hard for and do not come by on their own. Many of us are behind you PM Gonzi. When you call us to the polls, we will judge you by your accomplishments and not through political shenigans. Courage PM, courage...I am sure society is mature enough to make a proper choice for its future. Thank you PM.
Joseph Mifsud
Jun 4th 2012, 08:35
Yes "many of us are behind you Dr Gonzi"...hopefully not the majority
Edgar Azzopardi
Jun 3rd 2012, 17:46
The ' easy way out,' Dr Gonzi is to ignore the wil lof the people, surround yourself with the likes of Gatt and Fenech - who no doubt tell you all is well , and continue running this sinking ship as if it is a fine cruiser. The ' easy way out' is enjoyin the power which ive you the right to give yourself and your friends adn increas of E500 per week when many are struggling to make ends meet. The ' easy way out' is running a race when you are the only contestant and persuading everyone that the fact you came first is a win! What a charade you have become, my goodness! The ' easy way out' is to have the likes of PBO launch the soap opera-ish initiative of those who want to be you for one day, and try to sell this as if you are getting close to the people. The joke going round is ' At least we will have a Prim Ministru sura for one day !! The ' easy way out' is sitting on your patata in Castille Tower, away from the maddening crowd and what the people really want --the difficutl part of your role! Imma kemm tifilhu taqghu ghan--n.............lh?!
chris caruana
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:40
Sur Edgar ,
pity you have to write for so long and mean nothing at all , except to insult gonzi , with a typical '' laburist '' attitude .
At least gonzi explains , and delivers with confidence , whilst joseph just says he will do better , then when asked , he goes eeehhhhhhhhmmmmmm , mbaghad narraw !!
A bird in hand is worth two in the bush , they say .
Voting labour just because you have always been , i understand , but voting labour just because they promise better without one iota of explanation is another thing .
I would rather go to the Casino , more chance to win !!
And last but not least , all should remember '' you appreciate something when you loose it ''
Eddy Privitera
Jun 3rd 2012, 20:32
Chris Caruana. Joseph Muscat has already given many proposals - 51 during the budget debate - and recently another 3 proposals ! AND THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING - IL-KBIR GHADU GEJ !!!!!!!!!!
Charles Massa
Jun 3rd 2012, 17:36
Nofs l intervista jattakka lil Dr. Muscat. Imma Gonzi mhux ma Franco Debono biss ghandu l inkwiet. Fil partit hemm qasma. Ghandu l inkwiet anki ma Mugliett, Farrugia, Pullicino Orland u anki Arrigo. Gonzi ma jmurx ghal elezzjoni issa ghax jaf li se jitlef. Anki site taghhom tghid LABOUR IS AHEAD BY THOUSAND OF VOTES. Il mozzjoni ta nhar it tnejn hija farsa bhal ma kienet farsa meta tellaq wahdu.
Mark Borg
Jun 3rd 2012, 17:30
The 'easy way out' is to remain in power till the very last minute - and enjoy the trappings of power to the hilt! Who do you think you are fooling Gonzi?
Miguel Attard
Jun 3rd 2012, 17:43
L-aktar triq facli hi li ssejjah elezzjoni, u mhux li tkompli tmexxi meta taf li trid kontinwament trid thabbat wiccek ma min mhux lest li jikkopera mieghek.
Dr Gonzi huwa vera mexxej ta' kull zmien ax wera li, sakemm tippermettilu l-ligi, jibqa' sod sa l-ahhar.. l-ghira taghkom, ax ntom waqajtom mill ewwel :)
jane galea
Jun 3rd 2012, 19:15
Miguel tidhaqx bik innifsek,nimmagina li qieghed komdu skond il-kummenti tieghek jew jonqos tiehu xi haga ohra,jien nahseb ried tikteb jibqa sod akkost ta kollox anke jekk bhali li nahdem FIL-PRIVAT (mhux inpappija mal-gvern) faqqarni
lilly vella
Jun 3rd 2012, 17:24
nisthi ,naghmel parti min pajjiz ,immexxi min dan il pm.
Catherine Zammit
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:57
Jien ukoll xi darba kont nistħi nagħmel parti minn dan il-pajjiz ... meta kelna passaport aħdar.
Freddie Micallef
Jun 3rd 2012, 21:14
u illum ghanda l id cards skaduti isthi tkellem
Jason Borg
Jun 3rd 2012, 21:44
imma cattherine dak iz zmin ada u imbidel, u issa hawn bzonn il bidla ukoll
Eddy Privitera
Jun 3rd 2012, 10:24
It is much more than obvious that Lawrence Gonzi CAN NEVER BE TRUSTED TO LEAD A STABLE GOVERNMENT ! His track record in this regard, - how he treated his ex-ministers and how he handled his present back benchers - prove this beyond any reasonable shadow of doubt !
Fran Abela
Jun 3rd 2012, 17:30
You are a fine one to judge Mr. Privitera. We can do withouth your valuable advice. What track record does your leader have to be Prime Minister ? Well the people will judge as they have always done.
Eddy Privitera
Jun 3rd 2012, 17:47
What track record did Dr. Eddie Fenech Adami have before he became prime minister in 1987 ????????????
Mario Cassar Laudi
Jun 3rd 2012, 17:58
You wish you had a leader like Dr Fenech Adami....that's why you quoted him....
Barney Camilleri
Jun 3rd 2012, 18:16
Eddie
The question is not on EFA. The question from Fran Abela is what trach record do your leader have to be Prime Minister? The only one I can recall was his campaign against Malta entering the E.U. and an anonymous letter circulating during the vote taking for leadership against his main opponent.
Ms Rudi Mcbeal
Jun 3rd 2012, 19:16
@EDDIE Privitera
Your dear leader is not Prime Minister material while Dr Fenech Adami was the best Prime Minister this country ever had. It is as simple as that.
Eddy Privitera
Jun 3rd 2012, 20:36
Rudy Mcbeal: Dr. Fenech Adami was the prime minister who inherited LM 450 million in Malta's coffers and started his "MONEY NO PROBLEM" policy which lead to the present €5,500 million national debt, part of which, of course, is Dr. Gonzi's responsibility too !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jonathan Camilleri
Jun 3rd 2012, 20:37
I do not necessarily share your opinion, why is it obvious?
Eddy Privitera
Jun 3rd 2012, 20:40
In pray to God to spare us another prime minister like DR. EFA since under his premieship I, together with thousands of labour supporters , suffered PSYCHOLIGICAL VIOLENCE for years on end ! I have a Tribunalsentence to prove this as many others have too ! He was the only prime minister I know who was foumd guilty of having LIEF about Dr Sant on yhe last day of the electoral campaign of 1993, when he said that Dr. Sant had prevented his son from entering university !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Joseph Mifsud
Jun 4th 2012, 08:30
@Fran
Judge Muscat's track record after a legislature term. Avoiding comparisons with EFA, you can compare Muscat directly with Gonzi (before he was elected PM)
Please choose the reason of your report below: