Kate Gonzi honoured

Joseph Muscat describes her as the pillar of Lawrence Gonzi and "one of the best campaigners". Broadcaster Peppi Azzopardi says she's the woman behind a great man.

Kate Gonzi's festschrift 'From the Heart' brings together a compilation of praise from some of Malta's best loved personalities and politicians who have had the pleasure of meeting and working with a woman who made mental healthcare and politics cornerstones of her career.

The book collects over 90 essays written by people from different walks of life who share their experience of knowing Kate Gonzi. Gonzi herself talks about the episodes from the last legislature, knowing that the 2008 general election had brought with it a poisoned chalice, and how the Libya conflict proved to be the most fearful time during the last five years of her husband's premiership.

"She is the backbone of her husband's chequered political career and success, and is a fine example of an encouraging spouse," President George Abela writes, describing her as an asset to the nation, a source of inspiration and a role model, and as a soft-spoken and charming lady who withstood the constant pressure that came from her husband's role.

"Despite never being in the foreground, Kate Gonzi was always observant. She is one of the best campaigners and wherever she goes she works the room. Every time I met her during a gathering, she gave me the impression that she was aware of everything that was going on," Joseph Muscat writes.

While auguring well for her future, Muscat said that notwithstanding her husband's electoral defeat, Kate Gonzi's importance to her husband and family's life was as crucial as ever.

Meanwhile, PN leader Simon Busuttil praised Kate Gonzi's attitude and her ability to listen to other people and their needs as a crucial part of Lawrence Gonzi's success. "During party activities, she would veer away from the media and talk to a patient, or old person. Her distinct characteristic of being able to listen and understand people is a lesson to all politicians who have a tendency of talking rather than listening."

Broadcaster Peppi Azzopardi says she was an influence on her husband. "Her humility and approach was often conveyed in Lawrence's Gonzi's speeches, who in turn would act upon any suggestions and criticisms communicated to his wife."

Describing Kate Gonzi as his preferred candidate for the presidential post, Peppi Azzopardi also hailed her as the "woman behind a great man."

"In the wake of the Libya crisis, Lawrence Gonzi was continually worried and preoccupied by the decisions, but Kate gave him a shoulder to lean on and assured him that his decisions were for the best of the country.

"Any time she met someone, she projected true compassion and care. Kate did not pretend that she knew someone but instead she always remembered previous meetings. "

Auxiliary Bishop Charles Scicluna also describes her as a sincere and compassionate woman. "Notwithstanding her background role, she conveyed compassion and sincerity. My admiration for her extends to her role as a great companion to Lawrence Gonzi: A great man who will be remembered for having stood by his principles."

Other contributors include Cherie Blair, former Nationalist ministers Giovanna Debono and Dolores Cristina, MP Mario Galea, broadcaster Pierre Portelli, and Eurovision singer Gianluca.

'Kate Gonzi: From the Heart' will be launched at the Radisson SAS St Julian's on Wednesday 11 December 2013 under the distinguished patronage of George Abela. Gonzi will sign copies at Kempinsky Hotel San Lawrenz, Gozo, on Saturday 14 December at 11:30am, and Agenda Bookshop at The Point, on Tuesday, 17 December at 4pm.