JPO: ‘It is not in my personal interest if early elections are called’

Adds Pullicino Orlando's latest comments on Facebook at 3:45pm

Government MP Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando, who will not be contesting the forthcoming general elections, has reiterated his call that "the political situation is resolved - either way - in the coming days".

Earlier this week on Facebook, while a meeting of the PN parliamentary group was ongoing, Pullicino Orlando had also backed up calls for early elections. Like backbenchers Franco Debono and Jesmond Mugliett, Pullicino Orlando had not attended the meeting.

Writing this morning on his Facebook wall, Pullicino Orlando said: "It is unfair on the country to prolong the uncertainty. As representatives of the people we should always remember that the national interest supersedes any other consideration."

Pullicino Orlando illustrated his comments with a picture of the Maltese flag.

Reacting to criticism he faced for supporting calls for an early election, Pullicino Orlando said his appeal for "a clearly charted way forward" was "definitely not in my personal interest if elections are held early - I will not be contesting the next elections".

He then added: "I will be very disappointed if I am not allowed to continue putting the Malta Council for Science and Technology on a sound footing-with the invaluable assistance I am getting from my board and staff."

In the latest update to his Facebook page, Pullicino Orlando wrote  "Unless the government suffers a defeat in a vote of confidence or a money bill it can continue to govern till the end of the legislature."

However the Zebbug MP added "The question is whether it is wise to do so, given the circumstances. The impasse between Hon. Debono and the Prime Minister is not only harming the country----it is also harming the Prime Minister's standing."

"If the Prime Minister continues to be weakened it will surely not help the PN's electoral chances. He has been re-confirmed as leader of the party with a resounding majority. He WILL be in the forefront of the forthcoming electoral campaign. How can a statesman who has had to endure months of humiliation lead a campaign with his head held high?"