Mugliett, political situation is ‘serious’, Portelli - elections are imminent

Former minister and Nationalist MP Jesmond Mugliett has insisted that the current political situation must be dealt with as soon as possible as it is "threatening" the stability of the country.

Speaking to Sunday newspaper Illum on the loss of Prime Minister's one-seat majority, after backbencher Franco Debono withdrew his support following a Cabinet reshuffle, Mugliett described the situation as 'serious" and said the Prime Minister had two options.

"The Prime Minister could either go to the parliamentary group and call for a vote of confidence, or else wait for the vote in Parliament, see how it goes and evaluate the situation..."

However, Mugliett warned the situation "cannot take months", adding that any further delays might paint a picture of instability.

Of the same opinion was Frank Portelli, the former president of the PN's executive, who warned that the only way forward was a general election.

"Keeping in mind that backbencher Franco Debono has declared he no longer trusted his leader, the Prime Minister no longer enjoys the support of the majority in Parliament," Portelli said, adding that the only option would be for Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi to turn to President George Abela and consult on an election.

"The President must then see if there is anyone else who enjoys the support of the majority of the House. If there is someone else, the President can appoint him as Prime Minister, if obviously that person accepts - which I doubt," Portelli said.

He added that if the President finds no one who has the support of the House majority, an election is called.

Another scenario would be for Gonzi to call for a vote of confidence in Parliament, or the Opposition leader to call for a vote of non-confidence. "I don't think Franco Debono will change his position now. There should have been less procrastination and more diplomacy," Portelli added.

Asked whether it would be anti-democratic of the Prime Minister not to call for a vote of confidence in government, Portelli said one would then see Opposition leader Joseph Muscat call for a vote of non-confidence - "which would be worse... Save for some political miracle, it seems like we're heading towards an election."