Karl Gouder, a Nationalist Party stalwart who held various roles within the party, has died. The former MP’s body was found in Valletta.

He was 45 years old.

His death on Tuesday came just two days after he announced his intention to contest and internal party election for the post of Secretary General, after the current holder, Michael Piccinino, announced that he will be stepping down.

Mr Gouder worked alongside Dr Piccinino in leading the party’s latest electoral campaigns in the Local Council and European Parliament elections, obtaining better-than-expected results that has shifted the narrative about the party’s chances for success in the coming years.

He previously served as Chief Operations Officer at Net Media, the PN’s media wing.

His political career saw him elected Mayor of St Julian’s. He also served as an MP for six years.

PN Leader Bernard Grech described him as a dedicated political activist.

President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola shared a short post, saying she is “devastated” by the news.