The inclusion of two MEPs in the new PN shadow Cabinet is being questioned by certain elements within the party, this newspaper has learnt.

“How can the Opposition aim to keep the government on its toes, when two of its shadow ministers do not even have a seat in Parliament,” sources close to the PN administration told The Sunday Times of Malta.

These concerns were raised following last Thursday’s reshuffle, in which all but three former ministers – Mario de Marco, Chris Said and Jason Azzopardi – were relegated to the backbenches in what PN leader Simon Busuttil described as a “regeneration” of the party. 

The new line-up consists of a two-tier structure composed of 10 teams, each headed by a shadow minister, who in turn is assisted by a number of MPs focusing on particular areas within that sector.

MEP Therese Comodini Cachia has been appointed opposition shadow minister for education and employment, while MEP Roberta Metsola is the shadow minister on foreign and EU affairs.

Party activists who spoke with this newspaper said that the inclusion of the two female MEPs signals Dr Busuttil’s intention to include them in the list of candidates for the next general election.

However, critics argue that this new arrangement might put the Opposition in an awkward position especially in Parliament, as it might have to rely on one of its backbenchers to spearhead its position.

“In the case of foreign affairs it may well be the case that former finance minister Tonio Fenech will be the one calling the shots in Parliament even though he is not the main spokesman,” they said.

This may also apply to ex-minister George Pullicino, now the party’s spokesman for early and compulsory education, under the team headed by Dr Comodini Cachia.

Speaking yesterday on Radio 101, Mr Pullicino seemed to have taken Dr Busuttil’s decision to put him on the backbenches in his stride.

“I work in a team, and in the best interests of a team,” Mr Pullicino said. Prior to the reshuffle, the former Cabinet member was one of the Opposition’s front liners, shadowing the energy sector which is of crucial importance in the wake of the government’s pledges on utility tariffs. While his new role was perceived by many as a demotion, Mr Pullicino put on a brave face saying it was the leader’s prerogative to choose the best elements worthy of being part of his shadow cabinet.