Updated | Chris Said ‘surprised’ by Castaldi Paris’s resignation

PN secretary general Chris Said has expressed surprise over the sudden resignation of Lija mayor Ian Castaldi Paris who on Monday submitted his resignation as mayor and member of the local council.

He also resigned from the Nationalist Party.

While Castaldi Paris cited lack of respect by the PN in his regard, Said said the news surprised him.

“The resignation comes as a surprise to me since Castaldi Paris never mentioned anything about feeling disrespected by the party or that he was disagreeing with the PN on something,” Said said.

The secretary general said he met Castaldi Paris and two PN councillors a few weeks ago where they discussed several issues.

“However the PN respects the decision taken by Castaldi Paris and accepts his resignation,” he said.

Said added that the PN remains opens to those who want to give their input and reminded councillors that they should always do their utmost to work for the good of the residents.

“The PN expects local councils with a Nationalist major to be an example of good governance,” he added.

Whilst thanking the local council members and the residents for the trust they had placed in him, Castaldi Paris said he was shouldering political responsibility.

“Political honesty and responsibility mean that you have to resign when the political party you form part of no longer respects you. Enjoying the party’s trust means that you can carry out your work with the support of the party you are representing,” he said.

Castaldi Paris said he wanted to dedicate his energy and work to the good of the locality of Lija and the country.

In a separate letter to PN secretary general Chris Said, Castaldi Paris informed the PN that he was resigning with immediate effect from the party.

“I am resigning as mayor as well since my position with the Nationalist Party is no longer tenable,” Castaldi Paris told Said.