Robert Abela set to become Malta's new PM

Source: Xinhua| 2020-01-12 13:20:52|Editor: Xiaoxia
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VALLETTA, Jan. 12 (Xinhua) -- Robert Abela is set to become Malta's new prime minister after winning the Labor Party's leadership election early Sunday.

At the final count, Abela obtained 57.9 percent of the vote, defeating his rival, Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister Chris Fearne, who won 42.1 percent.

Abela will take over from Joseph Muscat, who was forced to resign over an investigation into the 2017 murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.

Born in June 1977 and a lawyer by profession, Abela has been serving as a member of the House of Representatives of Malta since 2017. He is also the son of former President George Abela.

With his wife Lydia next to him, Abela said he was "humbled" by the trust shown in him by Labor Party members and has promised continuity with Muscat's government in his first remarks following the victory.

"I thank my friend Chris and look forward to working together for the good of the party and country," he addressed a huge crowd of supporters outside of the Labor's headquarters. "There is only one winner today -- the Labor Party."

Abela will give his first official speech as Labor leader at 4 p.m. (1500 GMT) at the party's congress on Sunday.

He is expected to take oath as prime minister on Monday.

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