Latest exit shows deepening  crisis under PN’s new leadership

Mario de Marco will not be contesting the next general election, becoming the ninth Nationalist MP to step away from the party under the leadership of Alex Borg.

This new development reflects a deeper crisis within the PN, one that has been evident for years through internal divisions, weak leadership, and an inability to reconnect with the Maltese people.

The fact that nine PN MPs and former ministers have made an exit under the new leadership of the PN speaks volumes.

The former Nationalist Deputy Leader, Minister and MP comes from a long-standing PN political family. His father, Guido de Marco, served as Deputy Leader, Deputy Prime Minister and senior minister within the Nationalist Party for many years, and later went on to become President of Malta.

Mario de Marco served as a minister during a Nationalist administration and was widely regarded as one of the more moderate voices within the PN.

Many veteran PN MPs appear increasingly aware that public confidence in the party has diminished considerably.

Repeated electoral defeats, conflicting messages, and a lack of clear direction have left many supporters disillusioned. Some MPs may simply feel that the current political climate offers little hope of success under the present PN administration.

Others may be stepping aside to avoid another humiliating electoral setback.

In contrast, the Labour Party continues to demonstrate stability, unity, and strong governance. Under Labour leadership, Malta has experienced economic growth, low unemployment, and continued investment in social benefits, infrastructure, and workers’ rights.

While no government is without challenges, many Maltese families continue to feel that Labour offers a clearer vision for the country’s future.

The decision of various PN MPs not to seek re-election can also be interpreted as an admission that the Opposition has failed to present itself as a credible alternative government.

Rather than inspiring confidence, the PN has often appeared fragmented and reactive, focusing more on criticism than on practical solutions.

Both De Marco’s and Carm Mifsud Bonnici’s sudden exits are a clear example of something deeper within the new PN leadership.