The Prime Minister told Parliament last night that Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca’s nomination as president was historic.

It was only the third time in history that the Opposition was voting with the government for a president, who this time came from the government’s side. He thanked the Opposition.

Secondly, this was a strong sign of change. It was time to show the Maltese were capable of leaving their political circles and nominating someone different to Coleiro Preca’s predecessors.

“For the first time in 32 years, with the exception of 1996, we have a female in one of the five main roles in the country, and not only, but in the highest role of the State,” he said.

This was not about symbolism or tokenism but simply recognition and an inspiration for generations of young Maltese females who doubtless see her as a role model.

She was not only a woman but one who made clear choices. She had entered politics at a turbulent time, when even some men feared getting into the fray. She was also a married mother who had a child before getting married, which conveyed the message that it was time to do away with stereotypes.

She was a woman prepared to tell some uncomfortable truths. She would serve as a moral guide for the government, Parliament and country. Dr Muscat paid tribute to her husband Edgar, who was certainly a factor that led her to accept the presidency.

Speaking as the Labour leader, Dr Muscat said she was a loss for the party and the government but a gain for the country.

She worked without expecting anything in return

“Mrs Coleiro Preca was a good minister and a vote catcher. She worked without expecting anything in return and the people are gaining one of the best presidents of the republic we have ever had.”

Opposition leader Simon Busuttil said the PN would be voting in favour as it wanted to play its part for the presidency to truly belong to everyone. The Opposition had no doubt she would rise to the occasion and it would give her every chance to do so. He pointed out that the choice did not build on the positive experience of the PN, which had chosen someone from the other side of the political arena. It was a “lost opportunity”.

There had also been a lack of respect, as not only had Dr Muscat failed to consult him but had informed him after it had become old news. The PN expected respect from government.

Still, the Opposition would respond maturely and didn’t mind making this gesture of goodwill, a gesture the government had failed to make. This was a constructive Opposition. Next time the PN expected the government to work with it if it wanted its backing.

The Prime Minister, he added, should not change the role or responsibilities of the President as laid down in the Constitution, as it was not up to him to do so. Any amendments had to be discussed and approved by Parliament.

In voting in favour, the PN wanted to set the example of national unity. It was proud of being behind a president “tagħna lkoll” (for all).