GSLP/Liberal Coalition Secures Fourth Term in Gibraltar’s Tightest Election Yet
The GSLP/Liberal coalition has emerged victorious in Gibraltar’s most closely contested election, securing their fourth consecutive term in office. With just nine Members of Parliament, this win marks a significant achievement for the coalition.
Chief Minister Fabian Picardo, from the GSLP, and Liberal leader Joseph Garcia celebrated their triumph alongside their jubilant supporters. The mood was electric as they entered the John Mackintosh Hall amid cheers and chants of ‘Four More Years!’
Notably, GSLP co-founder Sir Joe Bossano managed to retain his seat in parliament, despite receiving the fewest votes among the winning coalition candidates. Throughout the night, there were moments when his position seemed uncertain. However, after an impressive 51 years in parliament, with 20 of those in government, Bossano garnered the necessary votes to secure his seat once again.
Ultimately, the tightly contested election saw the GSLP/Liberal coalition defy the odds and emerge victorious. They captured 49.9% of the votes, while the Gibraltar Social Democrats (GSD) managed to secure 48%, and independent candidate Robert Vasquez received the remaining 1.8%.
The final tally amounted to 84,961 votes for the GSLP/Liberals, 81,945 votes for the GSD, and 3,262 votes for Vasquez. There were also 472 rejected ballot papers.
This outcome defied expectations, as an exit poll conducted by GBC and two pre-election predictions had suggested a narrow victory for the Gibraltar Social Democrats. However, the GSLP/Liberals led from the start and only occasionally faced threats to their control of No.6 Convent Place.
While the victory was generally cause for celebration, the loss of Vijay Daryanani was a slight dent in their triumph. The departure of more voters than usual from the coalition’s bloc vote strategy elevated concerns.
This election also brings about a unique situation, with the coalition holding just one more MP than the Opposition. This hasn’t occurred since before the 1969 constitution and highlights the need for the coalition to carefully manage their majority. Additionally, the retirement or passing of any GSLP or Liberal ministers could potentially trigger a shocking change of government through a by-election.
Looking ahead, Chief Minister Picardo is relishing the challenge of another four years in office, despite stating that this will be his last term. He expressed gratitude for the confidence the majority of Gibraltar’s people have placed in his party and the privilege of serving them from Six Convent Place.
In closing, Picardo issued a challenge to Spain’s President Pedro Sanchez to establish a government and finalize the European Union treaty. Gibraltar waits with anticipation to see if these words bear fruit in the near future.
