Jason Micallef has withdrawn from the race for Labour’s deputy leader for party affairs, paving the way for Alex Agius Saliba to potentially step in.
Micallef announced his decision after a series of meetings, including one with Prime Minister Robert Abela, where they discussed the need for party renewal ahead of the next general election.
Micallef emphasized that his decision was driven by his commitment to the best interests of the Labour Party, stating that he would not pursue the deputy leader position to maintain party unity and focus on future progress.
In the meantime, Agius Saliba has hinted at his interest in the role. While not officially declaring his candidacy, he shared on Facebook that he supports amending the party’s statute to allow MPs or MEPs to be eligible for the deputy leader position.
The current rules prevent members of the parliamentary group, including MEPs, from running for the post. Agius Saliba revealed that he had also met with Abela to discuss these changes and expressed his support for Abela’s vision for the party’s future.
As the Labour Party prepares to vote on a new executive at its upcoming general conference, the race to fill the deputy leader role has become increasingly competitive, highlighting differing views within the party.
#MaltaDaily
