RODERICK GALDES CONFIRMS HE WILL NOT CONTEST UPCOMING GENERAL ELECTION

Former minister Roderick Galdes has announced that he will not be contesting the upcoming general election, stating that the decision was taken in the interest of the Labour Party and the country.

In a Facebook post published on Saturday, Galdes said that his “highest interests” have always been his family, the party and the nation.

While noting that there had been considerable discussion surrounding his potential candidacy, he reiterated that he had already addressed the matter “clearly, directly and without hesitation”, and stands by his previous statements, particularly those concerning events within the party’s National Executive.

Galdes revealed that he had intended to contest the general election for a sixth time, aiming once again to secure the trust of voters. He emphasised his belief that sovereignty lies with the people, who should ultimately decide who represents them.

However, he said that the Nationalist Party and “certain extreme factions” were attempting to use his name in a partisan manner to damage the Labour Party, which he described as part of his family.

“It is for this reason alone that I have taken the decision not to continue my efforts to contest this election,” he said.

Instead, Galdes will focus his efforts on contributing towards the best possible electoral result for the Labour Party.

He also expressed confidence that what he described as “baseless allegations and calumnies” made against him would soon be disproven, adding that he hopes to continue serving with dedication and loyalty in the future.

Galdes concluded by thanking the communities of Qrendi, Luqa and Siġġiewi for their support throughout his political career.

#MaltaDaily