Karl Gouder Death: Former PN MP Karl Gouder died on Tuesday, two days after announcing his desire to run for party general secretary.
His body was discovered in Valletta, next to the former Customs House. The death is not being investigated as suspicious.
Bernard Grech, PN leader, revealed Gouder’s death in a Facebook post. He expressed his sympathies to Gouder’s family and friends and requested that people respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
Gouder, 45, expressed his interest in the PN general secretary position in comments to the Times of Malta last Sunday, a week after incumbent Michael Piccinino declared he would step down to run for the party’s election.
Gouder was the chief operations officer of the PN’s media arm and Piccinino’s right-hand man for the majority of his tenure. He was also instrumental in coordinating the party’s campaign for the 2024 MEP and local council elections.
He was previously Mayor of St Julian’s and a PN MP for six years in three legislatures. He attended Stella Maris and St Aloysius College and graduated with a business degree in 2001. As a student, he was president of the University Students Council (KSU) and a member of the National Youth Council (KNZ).
He was known for his cheery personality, but he was also an avid athlete who enjoyed long-distance runs. When Gouder announced his candidacy for PN general secretary, a party source mentioned how he successfully brought together all Dar Ċentrali employees.
His death came as a shock to political circles, where he was much esteemed. President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, said she was “devastated” to learn of the news. The Labour Party issued a statement offering its sympathies to the Gouder family. In a Facebook message, Prime Minister Robert Abela expressed his sorrow, recalling his long acquaintance with Gouder dating back to their school days.
President Myriam Spiteri Debono said Gouder’s selection as PN general secretary was a good thing for the party and the country, despite not knowing him personally. Speaker Anglu Farrugia also expressed sympathy to the family. The Malta LGBTIQ Rights Movement (MGRM) stated that Gouder was Malta’s first out-gay MP, emphasizing his vocal support for marriage equality.