Watch: Prime Minister wants Robert Arrigo honoured on Republic Day

Prime Minister Robert Abela has proposed that Robert Arrigo be honoured posthumously on Republic Day in December.

"I know he was not fond of titles because we would frequently speak about this, but I will propose that he is decorated on Republic Day," Abela told reporters on Tuesday, shortly after Arrigo's death was announced.

"He was a great contributor to sports, tourism and of course, to politics, in which he was able to communicate effectively and remain close to the people."

Despite being political rivals, Abela described Arrigo as a long-time friend and extended his condolences to his family.

Robert Abela says he and his political rival Robert Arrigo were longtime friends. Video: Jonathan Borg

However, during the same round of questions, Abela continued to dismiss the idea of a monument for assassinated journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.

"Our respect for the memory of Daphne Caruana Galizia is the respect we show her family every day. That is how we want to keep remembering her," he told a Malta Today reporter when pressed on whether the government will erect a permanent monument in honour of the journalist.

Arrigo, who was a PN MP and former deputy leader of the party,...