First election possible at end of this month

The first round of polls to elect a Nationalist Party leader to succeed Eddie Fenech Adami could be held as early as February 29, sources close to the party said.

The sources said the party would wait for Dr Fenech Adami's official announcement before setting the process in motion.

Another possible date being mentioned for the extraordinary general council meeting that would begin the election process is March 7.

In order to be elected, a contender has to obtain two-thirds of the vote, which makes it unlikely that the issue will be decided in the first round.

The leader is elected by councillors - who well exceed 800 - in a general council meeting convened specifically for that reason. Nominations must be submitted within two months of the post being vacated.