“An actor!” Micallef exclaimed in frustration, a statement immediately recognised by host Azzopardi as a subtle criticism aimed at PN nominee Cassar, who is the PR officer of Caritas.

Azzopardi swiftly interjected Micallef’s comments, asserting that “Marica is an extraordinary woman.”

“Marica lacks the stature for the Presidency,” Micallef retorted, a claim countered by Azzopardi with “I believe she possesses it.”

Micallef proceeded to ponder “the state of our nation,” suggesting that at this rate, “we might as well approach any random person on the street and ask if they would like to be President?”

Marica Cassar, an actress and PR Officer for Caritas, was one of the nominees for President put forth by the Nationalist Party. Cassar, previously employed as a communications official during President George Abela’s tenure, is married to Joe Cassar, an editor within Media.Link, the PN’s media arm.

Meanwhile, Cassar took to Facebook to express her disappointment at Micallef’s remarks, asserting that while he “has every right not to have faith” in her, “he does not have the right to disparage all actors in Malta and Gozo.”

Urging him to issue a public apology to all the actors he belittled, she highlighted that Malta boasts several talented actors, “some of whom have even gained international recognition.”

“Actors who, aside from their stage talent, are capable of assuming roles of responsibility in their country—because why not?” she concluded.

Micallef’s contentious statement arises as President George Vella’s term in office nears its end, with political parties proposing potential candidates to succeed him in the role.

Previously, the appointment of a President required a simple majority in the Government. However, following a constitutional amendment in 2020, a newly appointed President now necessitates the support of two-thirds of the House of Representatives, constituting a qualified majority.

Consequently, Vella is the final President to have assumed the role with the support of only a majority of MPs.

Moving forward, unless the Government commands a two-thirds majority in Parliament, the President must garner support from the Opposition. Presently, the Labour Government lacks a two-thirds majority.

What are your thoughts on Micallef’s remarks?