Eddie Fenech Adami discharged from hospital

President Emeritus Eddie Fenech Adami has been discharged form Mater Dei Hospital, a day after he suffered a minor heart attack.

The 81-year-old former Nationalist Prime Minister was out on a boat with his son Beppe Fenech Adami and their family when he suffered severe chest pain and temporarily lost consciousness. He was rushed to Mater Dei Hospital where doctors diagnosed a minor heart attack.

Fenech Adami has had heart problems in the past. In 2013, he underwent surgery after suffering a heart attack. Previously he had heart bypass surgery and a pacemaker fitted.

Fenech Adami was first elected to Parliament in 1969 and became PN leader in 1977. After leading the party in opposition through a turbulent period, marred by political violence and a toxic political scene, he was elected Prime Minister in 1987.

Upon being elected to power, Fenech Adami embarked on a reform programme which transformed the country’s economy into an open and free market economy while modernising the country’s infrastructure.

Upon his guidance, Malta also began a period of integration with the EU, formally applying for membership in 1990. He also introduced local government.

Following a two-year stint in opposition between 1996 and 1998, Fenech Adami led Malta into the EU in 2004.

Before Malta’s official accession in May of that year, Fenech Adami was appointed President of the Republic.