The PN leadership election will be held on February 25, the party's executive committee decided this evening.

The PN said voting will take place between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. in Malta and between 11 a.m.and 6 p.m. in Gozo. The result will be announced on the same day and if no second round is needed, the party leader will address the party council on February 26. Should a second round be needed, it will be held on March 3, with the speech on March 4.

Nominations will be received this Monday.

In comments this evening, Dr Gonzi said he was pleased that the process had been launched quickly.

The leadership contest was called by Dr Gonzi last Sunday during a meeting of the PN national council. He said he was assuming his responsibilities following criticism by MP Franco Debono, and he was therefore seeking a secret ballot in which anyone could be a candidate.

The winner has to achieve two-thirds of the votes in order to be declared elected in the first round, after which a simple majority would be sufficient.

The electoral commission will be chaired by former minister Michael Refalo, assisted by MEP David Casa, Dr. Anne Fenech (AZAD); Sonia Vancell (President MNPN) and Boris Xerri (PN treasurer).

PL: UNCERTAINTY FOR ANOTHER MONTH

The Labour Party said the PN's decision meant that the country was to experience at least another month of uncertainty. 

The party said the prime minister needed to keep in mind that this election would not solve anything other than to keep him clinging to power while families and businesses were left in uncertainty. 

Dr Gonzi needed to achieve his majority in parliament, not the party, the PL said.