Victor Ragonesi, negotiator in 1964 independence talks, dies aged 101
Ragonesi played 'crucial role' in independence talks, EP president says
Victor Ragonesi, a key player in Malta’s independence negotiations with the UK has died aged 101.
A lawyer by profession, Ragonesi became the PN’s honorary general secretary in 1954.
He went on to become public relations secretary for ex-Prime Minister Gorg Borg Olivier, and was part of the delegation that led talks with the British government for Malta’s independence.
Borg Olivier’s PN government won the 1962 election after promising to seek Malta’s independence, which came two years later after more than 150 years of British rule.
Ragonesi was a regular commentator on political and financial matters, contributing articles to Times of Malta and other media.
In 2005, he was recognised by the Russian government for strengthening relations between Russia and Malta.
European Parliament president Roberta Metsola led tributes to Ragonesi, hailing his role behind the scenes in helping Malta gain independence.
“He played a crucial role in enabling our country to make full use of independence to promote the social and economic well-being of the Maltese”, Metsola said.
“I will always cherish his memory, as he recalled to me the art of negotiation and persuasion, and how they were able to overcome challenges. Victor Ragonesi belongs to a generation of politicians to whom we remain grateful”.
The President of Malta Myriam Spiteri Debono also issued a statement on Ragonesi's passing saying:
"The presidency pays tribute to the memory of Lawyer Victor Ragonesi, who during the 1950s and 1960s contributed not only to Maltese politics through his work within the Nationalist Party, but also played an important role, entrusted to him by Prime Minister Dr Ġorġ Borg Olivier, in the negotiations that led to Malta’s Independence".
The Nationalist Party also paid tribute to Ragonesi.
“Ragonesi was a man of substance, determined, resilient, and unwavering. He will be remembered for his significant contribution to the negotiations that led to Malta attaining Independence in 1964,” the PN said in a statement.
As far back as 2005, Ragonesi warned the PN that it risked losing youngsters who had come to despise politics.
"Unfortunately, many politicians are nowadays out to make a career. This is not what they are supposed to be in politics for. They have been elected to serve the people and the country," Ragonesi argued.
Recounting his own experience as PN general secretary, Ragonesi said not only were Borg Olivier and him not paid for their work, but they very often forked money out of their own pockets to finance the party's activities.
"It's very constructive to voice your feelings on your own party and it's fine to make a mistake. And when I make a mistake, I should stand up and apologise," Ragonesi said.