We need a contest – Gonzi

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi insisted with his party executive members that the upcoming deputy leadership election should be contested by the largest number of candidates possible to show the PN is alive and a catalyst for change. Aware of speculation in political and media circles that potential candidates may not contest because MEP Simon Busuttil is being perceived as the anointed candidate, Dr Gonzi said the PN was after a real contest. A member of the PN executive said the Prime Minister insisted with all those present that a contest is the best way forward for the party. Dr Busuttil yesterday remained tight-lipped about his intentions, saying only he was still toying with the idea of standing for the post but had not yet made a final decision. The same response came from the other potential candidates – ministers Mario de Marco, Tonio Fenech and Chris Said. Asked by The Times following a press conference on green public procurement about the PN race, Mr Fenech said he had not yet decided, while Dr de Marco added he would make his intentions known in the coming days. At one point, Dr de Marco jokingly turned to Mr Fenech and told him: “I will be your campaign...