St Julian’s mayor Albert Buttigieg and Emma Portelli Bonnici have submitted their nominations to run. 

“I have always looked at politics as a tool to make this country a better place. For the past 17 years, I tried to do my very best to serve our people as a local councillor, mayor and MP for 12 years,” Gouder wrote on social media. 

“Considering my electoral result last March, I believe that at this point in time my duty is to focus on my career, especially as Chief Operating Officer of the Party media, and that is why I feel that I should dedicate my time to this and not contest the Casual Elections.”

“I wish the very best to Albert and Emma. Being a member of parliament is the greatest privilege that the people can give you, however, this comes with great responsibility.”

The casual election will be held on 28th October.

Buttigieg received the most votes out of the candidates who did not manage to secure a seat during the last general election. He was the one who received the most of Arrigo’s excess votes during the general election.

Portelli Bonnici, meanwhile, performed relatively well in her first-ever general election and had dropped out just before Buttigieg.

Buttigieg and Portelli Bonnici present interesting choices. Both are outspoken on major issues, whether that’s construction or liberal issues like sexual health.

Both were critical of the party after the election. Buttigieg claimed that his bid was obstructed by internal rivals, referencing a meeting between a high-ranking non-elected PN official and a ‘fat cat’ at a hotel.

Although Buttigieg didn’t name any names, Ray Bezzina – who was the PN’s head of secretariat before moving to the db Group – suggested the mayor was referring to him.

Ultimatums from the PN proved to be useless and the issue was buried there. 

Meanwhile, Portelli Bonnici said that the “party made no space” for her and was distancing herself from the party.

Who will win the casual election?