The highest civil authority on the island, in the distinct person of the President of the Republic, is each year invited to the Pontifical Mass led by the Archbishop for the feast of St Publius, patron saint of Malta and Floriana. This year was no exception. Following the Pontifical Mass, President George Abela was escorted to the Vilhena band club for the yearly traditional gathering.

His speech at the club came as a surprise to all. Acknowledging the fact that this was his first public address since the ‘Speech from the Throne’ at the opening of Parliament, he immediately disassociated himself from its contents. He made it clear that it was not of his own creation (something which perhaps the majority knew) but that he was obliged constitutionally to read (not necessarily known to all and sundry).

The ‘Speech from the Throne’ was an insult to people of goodwill as it was politically motivated. For sure, it will have repercussions.

Lawrence Gonzi’s nomination of Abela as President of the Republic some four years ago was a gesture in the right direction intended to unite the Maltese.

The ‘Speech from the Throne’ was one aimed to disrupt unity and to offend the Opposition.

The President was right to feel upset and embarrassed at the people’s negative reaction. He has been careful all along to keep himself above controversial politics (just as his predecessors did). Presenting him with such a speech proved very tactless, to put it lightly, by whoever wrote it.

On Sunday, in Floriana, I met a number of friends and acquaintances from different walks of life, and among the subjects of discussion was the President’s declaration. I was struck by the number of them (also Labour supporters) who felt that the contents of the speech were out of place and who were saying they would no longer contribute to the President’s charity fund. Hopefully, time heals and they may change their mind, as President Abela has been doing a lot to help those in need.

The President is right to suggest that, in future, the one who reads the speech should be the one who writes it. As, now, no one can turn the clock back, it’s up to the author of this year’s ‘Speech from the Throne’ to shoulder responsibility and apologise to the nation.