‘We made history’: Robert Abela says Labour has been given a 'strong mandate'
Prime Minister reacts as the governing party is returned to power
Labour leader Robert Abela has said history has been made in his first comments as the party was elected to govern for the fourth time in a row.
In brief comments to the national broadcaster on Sunday morning, the prime minister confirmed the victory, returning the governing party to power.
"Everything indicates that Labour has made history as the party to win four elections in a row," Abela said.
Abela did not give Labour's projections for the vote gap, but said everything indicates that the party has been given a "strong mandate." The PN said on Sunday morning that it lost the election by 18,000 votes.
The prime minister thanked all those who turned out to vote, and urged Labour supporters to be respectful in their celebrations.
“Let’s remain united as a single people. I will lead as prime minister of all citizens," he said.
Abela said he will lead the country as the prime minister of all Maltese and Gozitans.
He later repeated his comments when he arrived at the counting hall in Naxxar, accompanied by his wife, Lydia, where they were greeted with applause.
"I'm very proud that we've made history," he says. "We have a strong mandate to implement our electoral manifesto."
Throngs of Labour supporters have gathered to celebrate victory outside the party's Ħamrun headquarters, where Abela is expected to address them later.
More to follow