Malta’s media landscape was rocked by the news that long-time journalist and Lovin Malta founder Chris Peregin has left the organisation to join the Nationalist Party in an advisory capacity.

Making the announcement on Tuesday night, Mr Peregin wrote:

“I have decided to exit Lovin Malta completely and start working within the Nationalist Party instead.

“I will be relinquishing my position as CEO, my directorship and my shareholding, to give the team at Lovin Malta the freedom to scrutinise me as much as they do all other political players.

“I am able to take this step with my head held high only because I have total confidence in the diverse Lovin Malta team, including those who disagree with my personal analysis of the political situation.”

Mr Peregin, 33, did not provide details of what his new role within the PN will consist of, however it is understood that he will be contributing in an advisory/strategic capacity, and will not be contesting any elections on the party ticket. It is also understood that he will be working closely with PN Leader Bernard Grech on strategy and outreach.

Explaining the move, the long-time journalist said that while he commends the work of the smaller parties in Malta, a “democratic deficit” exists and that it is essential that the PN becomes a credible alternative to Government.

“The gap in support between the government and the opposition has remained too wide for too long and the trend seems to be taking us closer towards a two-thirds majority for Labour, which would effectively mean a one-party state,” he said.