“Just to be clear, I rent an apartment due to circumstances that have so far prevented my family and me from buying a property,” Bonett, a lawyer, said. “I’m not homeless and I didn’t apply for social accommodation.”

“The PN’s behaviour is disgusting and shameful; rather than helping people in need, it would rather conduct personal attacks on people like me who come from working families who were never given any favours in life.”

“How can we speak about the people’s needs if in the same breath we ridicule homeless people and those who need social aid? No wonder the people repeatedly chose the PL and gave the PN trashing after trashing; it seems they learned nothing.”

Abela, a surgeon, said he lives in rental accommodation out of choice.

“It seems as though the PN considers renting out property to be some kind of dishonour but I believe that everyone lives as they see fit. I’m pleased with what I have and never troubled anyone. If someone wants to take the mickey out of me because I rent like so many other people do, then that’s up to them.”

Cover photo: From left – Minister Jo Etienne Abela, PN MP Mark Anthony Sammut, parliamentary secretary Chris Bonett

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