Carmelo Abela unanimously elected Speaker of the House

Carmelo Abela has been elected Speaker of the House of Representatives after the opening of the 15th Parliament, saying the role carries responsibility towards the House and its members, the Constitution and the people who give the institution its democratic authority. 

Carmelo Abela was elected Speaker of the House after being nominated by Prime Minister Robert Abela and approved by both sides of Parliament.

“Thank you, I know that this role is one of responsibility towards the House and its members, towards the Constitution and above all towards the people who give this institution its democratic authority,” Abela said after taking his oath.

He said that this is not only trust in a person, but also trust in a role that must remain above the controversies of the day and close to the principles that give meaning to parliamentary life: respect, free speech, justice, truth, and the dignity of the people.

Abela thanked the members of the House for the trust shown in him, saying that the role of Speaker must remain above the controversies of the day.

He paid tribute to former Speaker Anglu Farrugia for his long and dedicated service in leading parliament's work over the years, saying the institution was better because of his commitment. 

He also recognised the work of previous Speakers who contributed towards the growth of the Maltese Parliament as a democratic institution.

Abela said parliament is not only the place where politics takes place, but also where politics must meet responsibility. He said the government has the right and duty to carry out its programme after receiving the trust of the majority of the people.

At the same time, he said the Opposition has the right and duty to question, criticise and challenge.

He said he hoped the 15 legislature would be marked by serious debate, responsible behaviour, and respect for one another, the people, and the rules that guide the House.

He thanked parliament officials and workers for their work, saying they help keep the institution working. 

Shortly after the election of the Speaker, the election for deputy Speaker took place, where Nationalist Party MP Bernard Grech was nominated for the role.

In his remarks, Grech thanked Parliament, the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition (Photo: MaltaToday/James Bianchi)

Grech was elected with the support of both sides of the House. In his remarks, Grech thanked parliament, the prime minister and the Opposition leader.

He said he would continue working effectively in parliament together with the new Speaker, Carmelo Abela.