We cannot fail to notice with regret the passing of a great statesman, a truthful son of Malta, a Bormliż. Such a person appears on our land once in a while, a man who leaves behind him a trail like a meteor. May he rest in peace.

In the last six months a personality has appeared on the horizon who has reminded me of Mintoff in his younger days when he burst on the local political scene chastising his elders for the lackadaisical way they looked after the interests of their own people.

Of course I am talking here of MP Franco Debono who apart from the physical stature looks and behaves like Mintoff of yore.

He has the same personality traits and foibles: intelligence, patriotic zeal, arrogance, narcissism, logical reasoning and courage to face the odds whatever may come.

He stood up to his Prime Minister just as Mr Mintoff did Boffa.

Unfortunately, Dr Debono’s position is awkward in finding his place in the political scene.

He could spread his wings and soar since he is a capable man. Malta today needs him.