Busuttil and ministers say there’s no rift

Newly-elected Nationalist deputy leader Simon Busuttil yesterday said he wants to work closely with Cabinet members who endorsed and in some cases even campaigned for his opponent. “Perhaps it might have been better if they held back in some respect... It’s important for me to build a bridge with all MPs, including ministers, and to win their trust,” the popular MEP tells The Sunday Times in an interview. Dr Busuttil was declared winner in Friday’s PN deputy leadership race after obtaining an overwhelming 72 per cent of the councillors’ vote. Ten ministers endorsed Finance Minister Tonio Fenech’s nomination and the majority were not present when the result was announced. However, two of them said yesterday there was no rift between Cabinet and Dr Busuttil. Tourism Minister Mario de Marco and Justice Minister Chris Said told The Sunday Times they could not attend Friday night’s election because of other official engagements. “Endorsing or supporting somebody does not mean you are against the other candidate... Dr Busuttil has my full support and loyalty,” Dr de Marco said. The Justice Minister insisted the election showed the party was united. Dr Busuttil says he was hurt by false...