Long-serving Nationalist MEP David Casa has dropped plans to seek the post of PN general secretary.

"In light of recent events and following discussions with my colleagues and PN leader Adrian Delia, I am convinced, now more than ever, that it is my duty to keep serving the party and the country in the European Parliament," he said in a statement. 

He thanked all those who had been willing to support his bid.

"Together with Roberta Metsola and Francis Zammit Dimech, I believe we can make a positive difference here in Brussels, standing up for what is right and just. Together we will see better days for the party and Malta," he said. 

Nominations for the post of general secretary close tomorrow. The appointment is made by the PN executive. No submissions are believed to have been made so far.

The new secretary will succeed Rosette Thake.

Former PN Administrative Council president Pierre Portelli has said he is eyeing the post.

Contacted by Times of Malta this morning, he said he would decide after a meeting with Dr Delia.

Mr Portelli has been associated with the PN since 1991, when he joined as a reporter. He eventually also served as head of news.

More recently he was director of content at The Malta Independent, but resigned a month ago and has since been working closely with Dr Delia on strategies for the PN. He was also elected to the PN executive, obtaining strong support.