With the Labour leadership election campaign coming to an end, anyone having the country's interest at heart must hope that the delegates will make the right choice this time around. For the party and for the country.

It would be a tragedy if a party which, in the last election garnered as much public support as the party elected to govern, fails to elect a strong leader embracing strong social democratic ideals. It is with this in mind that I am obliged to relate the following at this delicate time. I am not an MLP delegate. This did not prevent me from being unwittingly embroiled in a political soap opera.

Not too long ago, I was approached by former Prime Minister Dom Mintoff, a man who has always fascinated me. He asked if I would be kind enough to give him a lift to Qormi so that he could attend an activity organised by George Abela.

Obviously, I obliged and was happy to see Mr Mintoff greeted with such enthusiasm by the crowd present. Even Dr Abela looked pleased with Mr Mintoff's presence, even acknowledging him during his speech.

That was the pleasant part. In the subsequent days rumours started spreading, by a number of delegates supporting Dr Abela. They alleged that I took Mr Mintoff to Dr Abela's event under instructions in an attempt to embarrass him.

This is an absolute and total lie, which is most hurtful, especially when one considers that Mr Mintoff even had a seat in the front row waiting for him.

I suspect that those spreading these lies know this.

Could it be that the unwelcome guest only became unwelcome after the manner in which his visit was reported by certain sections of the media?

Once again I would like to stress that I am not an MLP delegate nor part of any candidate's electoral machine.

While I do have my favourite, as most people do, I have absolutely no interest in helping one candidate at the expense of another. All I did was to accept a request to give a lift to the MLP's founder.

What does bother me however, is that a person who founded the party and whose ideals I believe in, should be seen as a threat to anyone's leadership chances. It just shows the state of paranoia that most Labourites have found themselves in.

Isn't it time that party delegates stop this petty squabbling ?