Miriam Dalli denies being a European Commissioner contender

Miriam Dalli has denied reports that she is one of four contenders to replace Karmenu Vella as Malta’s European Commissioner.

The Malta Independent reported on Sunday that the Labour MEP, together with Finance Minister Edward Scicluna, European Affairs Minister Helena Dalli and Deputy Prime Minister Louis Grech, were in a race to take up the post as Malta’s representative in the European Commission once Vella’s term comes to an end in October.

But, in a reaction to the story, Dalli said that this was “mere speculation” and “does not reflect the truth.”

In a Facebook post, Dalli said her work is “completely focused on attaining the best results for the Labour Party in the European election, to ensure we have a majority of members, who will safeguard the national interest.”

“I am contesting the MEP election in order to continue serving my country and defending it with greater strength and energy,” she said.

“This is why I am going door-to-door and meeting you in our towns and villages. I believe that I still have a lot to do, and no amount of speculation will lessen my determination.”

She added that she wanted to send a message to those who believed in her that they should work together to ensure the best results for Malta and for the Labour Party.