Ivan Castillo Appointed Whip Of Nationalist Parliamentary Group

The Partit Nazzjonalista's newly formed Parliamentary Group met for the first time yesterday following the conclusion of the electoral process that saw casual elections held to fill seats vacated by candidates elected from two districts in the 30 May general election.

The gender balance mechanism also came into effect, finalising the composition of Parliament for the new legislature.

Addressing the parliamentary group, PN Leader Alex Borg congratulated all newly elected Members of Parliament and thanked them for their commitment to public service.

He also expressed appreciation to candidates who were not elected, encouraging them to remain actively involved within the party and continue contributing to its future.

Borg said he was proud of the parliamentary group, highlighting the blend of experienced MPs and new faces. He noted that several young representatives had been elected for the first time and said their energy and perspectives would strengthen the party's work and contribute positively to the country.

The PN leader also announced the appointment of Ivan Castillo as Whip of the Nationalist Parliamentary Group. He revealed that, as part of a restructuring exercise, the group will for the first time include two Deputy Whips and a Secretary, with appointments expected in the coming days.

During his address, Borg urged MPs to maintain close contact with the public throughout the legislature rather than only during election campaigns. He said feedback received by the party since the election had underlined the importance of remaining connected to people's concerns, even while serving in Opposition.

The new Parliamentary Group includes 13 first-time MPs and 12 women, four of whom were elected to Parliament for the first time. Borg described this as evidence of the party's ongoing renewal process, which he said would continue in the years ahead.

The group, comprising 37 MPs, will be sworn in during Parliament's first sitting next Saturday. The Labour Party will hold 42 seats. Meanwhile, the PN General Council is set to meet on 24 June to begin the process relating to the confirmation or appointment of the party leader.

#MaltaDaily