Tributes Pour In Following Death Of Former Enemalta CEO Jonathan Cardona

Former Enemalta and Residency Malta CEO Jonathan Cardona has passed away, prompting tributes from across Malta’s political and public sectors. Following news of his death, Prime Minister Robert Abela shared a message on Facebook expressing his sorrow and paying tribute to Cardona’s contribution to both the Labour Party and the country. Abela said he learned of Cardona’s passing during the ceremony for the appointment of the new Cabinet and described the news as a moment of shock and sadness. While acknowledging that Cardona had been facing health challenges in recent months, the Prime Minister said his death was still deeply felt. In his tribute, Abela highlighted Cardona’s role behind the scenes in helping the Labour Party earn the trust of voters ahead of its 2013 election victory. He also noted that Cardona went on to serve Malta in several leadership positions within important government entities over the years. The Prime Minister remembered him as a dedicated and loyal individual who approached every responsibility seriously while maintaining a positive attitude and energy throughout his life. Former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat also paid an emotional tribute to Cardona, describing him as one of the original members of the team that began preparing the Labour Party for government in 2008. Muscat recalled Cardona’s work as Chief of Staff to former Deputy Prime Minister Louis Grech and his role as an envoy to the European Council. He also praised Cardona’s management of Malta’s Citizenship by Investment Programme, arguing that it generated significant benefits for the country and helped sustain Malta’s economy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflecting on their friendship, Muscat described Cardona as one of the most intelligent people he knew, with a sharp sense of humour and an ability to find positivity even in difficult circumstances. He revealed that Cardona had been battling cancer for the past year and spoke about their final conversations, including a phone call just a week ago. Muscat said he had attempted to contact him again on Saturday but later learned that his condition had deteriorated. Economy Minister Silvio Schembri also shared a tribute on social media, describing Cardona as one of the pioneers of the Labour government elected in 2013. Schembri said Cardona consistently demonstrated seriousness in his work and approached every task with dedication. He described him as one of the best people the movement had and bid farewell to his longtime friend. Cardona served as Chief Executive Officer of Enemalta between 2021 and 2023 before later taking on the role of CEO of Residency Malta. He also led the National Development and Social Fund in recent years. Over the course of his career, Cardona held several senior leadership positions within Malta’s public sector and was regarded as a trusted figure within Labour circles. Both Abela, Muscat and Schembri concluded their messages by honouring Cardona’s legacy and extending condolences to his wife Claire, children, parents and wider family. Lovin Malta also extends its condolences to Jonathan Cardona’s family, friends and colleagues. •