Said submits nomination for secretary general post, David Agius still mulling decision

Nationalist MP Chris Said was the first to submit his nomination for the post of secretary general of the Nationalist Party as nominations opened today.

Opposition whip David Agius, who had unofficially expressed his intention to run for the post, told MaltaToday that "no decision has been taken yet".

"I am leaving all option open," he said when asked whether he plans to file his nomination.

PN secretary-general Paul Borg Olivier will not seek re-election after the party's dismal showing at the polls.

On the other hand, Lija mayor Ian Castaldi Paris has decided not to contest post despite his declared intention days after the PN lost the 9 March elections.

"I want to concentrate on profession and I'm sure there are valid people who will run for the post," the mayor said when contacted, highlighting that a secretary general would have to give up his private profession to concentrate on party affairs.

"But I'm ready to serve and contribute in any way that the party wants me to."

Speaking to MaltaToday in March, Castaldi Paris had said the PN "needed a secretary-general who is down to earth with leading skills and who is a doer."

"I can go for it and I want the PN to be a successful party once again," he had said, adding that he had received a lot of support and encouragement to throw his hat in the ring. Castaldi Paris said that he was at the right age to undertake the task and added that he considers himself to be a doer.

The 34-year-old public has at times been at loggerheads with the outgoing PN administration and in 2011 he had resigned from president of the Nationalist Party's College of Councillors.