The Executive of the Nationalist Party said on Wednesday that its members had unanimously declared their confidence and support to party leader Adrian Delia.

In a brief statement, the executive said that at a meeting on Wednesday, the members also condemned 'coordinated and malicious' attacks made against him and the party.

The statement gave no details of what was discussed at the meeting.  

The meeting was held two days after a fiery meeting of the PN parliamentary group during which Dr Delia reportedly faced an ‘onslaught’ but none of those present openly called for his resignation.

A Nationalist MP who spoke to Times of Malta on condition of anonymity had words of praise for  the manner how Dr Delia handled the ‘onslaught’ and allowed everyone to have their say during the meeting, which lasted about four-and-a-half hours, ending at 10.30pm.

“There was lots of criticism. People expressed their doubts about him. In my opinion, he provided convincing replies to all the matters raised…He is not my cup of tea. Before this meeting, I was 95% against him. After the meeting, I would say I am 60% against him,” the MP admitted.

Dr Delia is going through separation proceedings with his estranged wife, who levelled domestic violence accusations against him in court last month.

The woes facing the PN leader also involve tax issues and an investigation on matters dating back years when he worked as a lawyer.

The PN's administrative Council on January 16 also expressed its unanimous support for Dr Delia, and in similar language to that used on Wednesday,  condemned what it described as "coordinated and malicious attacks being made against Dr Delia and the party."