‘A Unifying Figure Who Could Reach Across The Aisle’: Joseph Muscat Pays Tribute To Former PN MP Michael Bonnici

A pharmacist by profession and loved by many independently of their political beliefs, former Nationalist MP Michael Bonnici passed away yesterday aged 75.

Michael Bonnici was born and brought up in Żebbuġ, and throughout the years worked extensively for the locality. He was elected as a member of Parliament in 1987 and served as an MP right up till 2003.

Bonnici was regarded as a gentleman for his contribution towards Żebbuġ’s local community and for always fighting to preserve cultural heritage at the National Archives Malta with the establishment of the Historic Pharmacy Museum.

During his tenure as MP and deputy speaker, Mr. Bonnici was known for his benevolent and reasonable actions without any political distinction.

Following the tragic news on Wednesday evening as Local Council vote counting kicked off, several Maltese politicians – including Prime Minister Joseph Muscat – paid tribute to Bonnici

“As a young journalist reporting Parliamentary sittings, I always used to find former PN Deputy Speaker Michael Bonnici a unifying figure who could reach across the aisle,” Muscat said. “His work in the Żebbuġ community has touched many families. I pay him tribute.”

“He was a true gentleman and you always knew where you stood with him,” former PN and Opposition Leader Simon Busuttil Tweeted out.

RIP Michael Bonnici