Alex Borg sworn in as Opposition leader

Alex Borg was sworn in as Opposition leader on Wednesday, using the occasion to call for unity, saying the country must "forget about blue and red, and think of red and white".

The Gozitan lawyer's appointment to the constitutional role was presided by President Myriam Spiteri Debono at the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta. 

It took place three days after he was elected Nationalist Party leader.

Borg was accompanied by his mother Mary Debono Borg, his brother David Borg, and his partner Sarah Bajada. PN Deputy leader Alex Perici Calascione and PN secretary general Charles Bonello were also present at the ceremony.

Alex Borg kisses the cross as part of the swearing-in ceremony as President Myriam Spiteri Debono looks on. Photo: Matthew Mirabelli

Sharing a few words during the ceremony, Borg thanked his party, his family, and the Maltese and Gozitan people.

"We are experiencing a crucial moment in our country," Borg said. "We must forget about blue and red. We must think of the colours red and white, for our country. We must put aside our differences and work for a better country for the Maltese and Gozitans."

The president congratulated Borg and agreed with his call for national unity. She also highlighted the importance of influencing younger people.

Afterwards, supporters of the 30-year-old PN leader gathered at the entrance of the Grand Master's Palace and showered him with flowers in celebration, chanting "Alex, Alex". 

Borg hails from a political family. He is the son of the late Tony Borg, who served as mayor of Fontana and as chief of staff to former popular Gozo minister Giovanna Debono. On several occasions, he has spoken publicly about his close relationship with Debono.

In 2022, he was elected to parliament as the PN’s most popular candidate in Gozo, securing 6,100 votes, almost as many as Labour’s frontman in Gozo, Clint Camilleri, who secured 6,458. He outpaced veteran Labour MP Anton Refalo (5,002), as well as several incumbent and senior PN figures.

However, his win in the early hours of Sunday morning over fellow leadership contender Adrian Delia came by a narrow margin of just 44 votes.

Opposition leader Alex Borg shares a moment with President Myrian Spiteri Debono. Photo: Matthew Mirabelli