GSLP Executive Chair explains party leadership election process after GSD Leader's Nat Day message

The GSLP's Executive Chair has explained the party's leadership election process, in response to the Opposition Leader's National Day message.

Keith Azopardi said Fabian Picardo would pass on the baton to his chosen successor, who, he said, would likely become GSLP leader without a contest.

Pepe Baldachino says the Opposition Leader's statement merits a reply and explanation.

The GSLP Chair says his party's system is straightforward.  The leader must stand before the membership every two years at the Annual General Meeting.

He adds when the leadership becomes vacant, any GSLP member may stand, even if they're not an MP with the final decision taken by the membership.

Mr Baldachino explains that even if there's only one candidate, it does not remove the democratic role of the membership, who must still approve the candidate.

He points out the GSLP has never had a contested leadership but believes an uncontested election is not the same as an undemocratic one but simply means no-one else has chosen to stand.

The Party Chair says he would not interfere in how anyone else holds elections but if there's going to be a discussion on democracy, leadership and party processes, the comparison should be fair  and based on actual rules.