The outgoing president’s tenure was an overwhelming success which, in turn, was brought about by the courage of former prime minister Lawrence Gonzi who appointed George Abela from the then Opposition camp (something that, to my knowledge, was a first).
This was simply because Gonzi was convinced that Abela would bring a refreshing change and success to the highest office of the nation and also that he would deliver. And deliver he did.
The outgoing president served his office well above anyone’s expectations and succeeded in turninganything that he confronted into one roaring success after another.
This also confirms that (some of) Malta’s politicians have grown up and party political partisanship has, on this occasion, came second to what is best for this island.
Therefore, I would like to thank the former president as well as the former prime minister because, without the latter’s generous decision in the first instance, this would not have been possible.
I wish the new president my heartfelt congratulations and wish her a successful journey!