Dr. David Pace: From Operating Theatre to Political Arena

In the heart of Malta, at the bustling St. Luke’s Hospital in Guardamangia, renowned orthopaedic surgeon Dr. David Pace has been healing bones and mending lives for decades. But this year, he’s traded his surgical scrubs for a political spotlight. Dr. Pace is set to contest a Nationalist Party (PN) ticket in the upcoming general election, marking a significant shift in his public role.

From Medicine to Politics: A New Chapter

Dr. Pace, a veteran of the medical field with over 30 years of experience, is no stranger to making tough calls and navigating complex situations. But his decision to enter politics has raised eyebrows and sparked curiosity among Malta’s political watchers. “It’s a new challenge, a new way to serve my country,” he says, sipping coffee at a cafe in Sliema’s bustling Ferries Street, a stark contrast to the sterile environment he’s accustomed to.

For Dr. Pace, the move is a natural progression. “I’ve always been interested in politics, in how decisions made at the highest level affect people’s lives,” he explains. “Now, I want to be part of that decision-making process.” His medical background, he believes, will bring a unique perspective to parliament. “I’ve seen firsthand the impact of policy on people’s health and well-being. I want to use that insight to make a difference.”

PN Welcomes a New Voice

The PN, currently in opposition, has welcomed Dr. Pace’s candidacy. Party leader Bernard Grech sees him as a valuable addition to their ranks. “Dr. Pace brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to our team,” Grech says. “His medical background will be an asset in discussing and shaping health policy.”

Dr. Pace’s district, the fifth, covers parts of Birkirkara, Fgura, and Żebbuġ. It’s a diverse area, much like Malta itself, presenting a mix of urban and rural challenges. “I understand the needs of my district because I’ve been treating its residents for years,” Dr. Pace says. “I want to take that understanding to parliament and fight for the issues that matter most to them.”

Healthcare in the Spotlight

Healthcare, unsurprisingly, is high on Dr. Pace’s agenda. He’s critical of the current government’s handling of the sector, pointing to long waiting lists and staffing shortages. “We need to invest more in our healthcare system,” he says. “That means better pay for our nurses and doctors, more resources for our hospitals, and a focus on prevention, not just cure.”

But Dr. Pace isn’t just about critique. He has proposals too. He wants to see more emphasis on mental health, for instance, and a national strategy to tackle obesity. “These are issues that affect us all,” he says. “And they need to be addressed with urgency.”

Dr. Pace’s entry into politics is a reminder that public service takes many forms. From the operating theatre to the political arena, he’s committed to healing – whether it’s broken bones or broken systems. “I’ve dedicated my life to making people better,” he says. “Now, I want to do that on a larger scale.”