Tonio Borg, Zammit Dimech contesting for deputy leader

The Nationalist Party deputy leadership election will be a two-horse race, after Transport Minister Censu Galea and Education Minister Louis Galea decided at the eleventh hour not to include their name.

The contest will now be between Justice Minister Tonio Borg and Tourism Minister Francis Zammit Dimech. It will be held on March 19.

Dr Zammit Dimech was the first off the blocks when nominations opened on Saturday, with Dr Borg handing in his nomination yesterday, just hours before the 6 p.m. deadline.

The successful contender would require two-thirds of the councillors' vote to get elected.

When contacted, the Transport Minister said he had expressed an interest in the post but after weighing all the options, he decided not to run.

"Both Francis and Tonio are personal friends of mine and I wish them all the luck," Mr Galea said.

The Education Minister was brief, saying only that he had decided not to cast his name.

Dr Borg handed in his nomination - which is endorsed by 60 signatures - to PN general secretary Joe Saliba yesterday morning.

Speaking to reporters, Dr Borg reiterated that he had a lot in common with Lawrence Gonzi, though he insisted he was no clone of the newly elected party leader.

"Together I believe we will make a good team," the 46-year-old lawyer said.

Dr Borg denied, when asked, that the party machinery was backing him.

"I am not basing this election on anybody, and in fact I will be meeting all the councillors individually. I will then expect them to make a serious analysis of me."

Pointing out the importance of reaching the party's grassroots in his message, Dr Borg said the post of deputy leader was an honourable one, especially considering it was previously occupied by politicians like Guido de Marco and Censu Tabone.