Zammit Dimech drops out

The contenders for the Nationalist Party leadership have practically whittled down to three after Tourism Minister Francis Zammit Dimech opted out of the race.

Education Minister Louis Galea, a former party general secretary, confirmed yesterday he would run.

The two front runners are Social Policy Minister Lawrence Gonzi and Finance Minister John Dalli.

Nominations for the election open today.

Prime Minister Eddie Fenech Adami kicked off the process on Saturday when he submitted his resignation after 27 years at the party helm.

Mr Dalli instantly stepped into electoral gear and during a political meeting in Paola yesterday clearly manifested his ambitions, in contrast to the other front-runner, who kept a low profile.

Dr Zammit Dimech said he had carefully weighed the circumstances before taking his "difficult" decision. "I was highly encouraged by the comments of party councillors but I have decided that, in the best interest of the party, I will not put forward my name," he said.

"This has been a painful decision in my political career. I had to fight against my competitive instincts but, ultimately, I believe I have taken a wiser and more reasonable decision."

Dr Zammit Dimech admitted that his promotional campaign had been mapped out, to the extent that publicity material had already been printed.

But, on reflection, and after taking everything into perspective, the 49-year-old lawyer decided to drop out on Friday night.

Dr Zammit Dimech wished the contenders the best of luck and pledged his "utmost loyalty" to whoever is elected.

At 5 p.m. yesterday, The Times online poll saw Dr Gonzi ahead of Mr Dalli by six percentage points, the highest margin in the last four days.

However, it will be the party councillors, not the general public, who will vote for the person who will, ultimately, be prime minister, and both candidates were seen as running neck and neck.

Speaking to a packed PN club in Paola, Mr Dalli unofficially launched his leadership campaign and focused his speech on nationwide issues rather than those merely relating to his ministerial portfolio.

He said he would be holding "listening tours" in PN clubs as from this week to hear to the comments, concerns and opinions of party supporters.

Often praising Dr Fenech Adami in his speech, Mr Dalli spoke about the importance of change and for governments to take effective decisions.

He insisted that the PN in government embraced everybody and he listed as a primary objective the need that his party should "win the south", traditionally a Labour stronghold.

Mr Dalli urged party councillors to carefully weigh the qualities of the candidates before casting their vote on February 28.

"But ultimately let's look for a sound leadership," he said to a standing ovation.

Dr Gonzi confirmed to The Times he would be standing as a candidate for the leadership election.

"The past six years, first as general secretary and later as PN deputy leader, have been an extraordinary experience at grassroot level and in working closely with Eddie Fenech Adami."

Dr Gonzi said it was essential for the PN to continue building on the accumulated successes championed by Dr Fenech Adami within the context of EU membership.

"All my political endeavour has been person-centred and task focused. So will my campaign for the PN leadership. During the next three weeks, I shall continue with meetings on both an individual and district level with party delegates, while fulfilling my responsibilities as minister and deputy prime minister.

"I am aware that the PN delegates have the difficult task ahead of choosing between very competent and valid people, all of whom have contributed significantly to what we are enjoying today."