Imagine standing in the grandeur of the Parliament building in Valletta, the sun streaming through the high windows, as the Speaker’s voice echoes through the chamber. That’s the scene that unfolded recently when Speaker Anglu Farrugia delivered a passionate appeal for ‘truth, peace, and responsibility’ in Malta’s public life. But what does this mean for us, the people of Malta, and how can we respond?

Farrugia’s call for truth resonates deeply in a country that has grappled with issues of transparency and accountability. From the Panama Papers to the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, Malta has seen its fair share of shadows. But the Speaker’s words offer a beacon of hope, a reminder that truth is the cornerstone of our democracy.

In practical terms, this means pushing for open dialogue, supporting investigative journalism, and demanding transparency from our institutions. It means asking tough questions and expecting honest answers. It means standing up for the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. As Farrugia put it, “Truth is not always pleasant, but it is necessary.”

Malta, with its rich history and diverse population, is a mix cultures and beliefs. Yet, our unity often seems fragile, strained by political divisions and social tensions. Farrugia’s call for peace is a timely reminder that our strength lies in our diversity, not despite it.

This means fostering understanding and respect, even in the face of disagreement. It means listening to different voices, including those often marginalized. It means promoting dialogue, not division. As the Speaker said, “Peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice.”

Farrugia’s final call, for responsibility, is a rallying cry to each of us. It’s a reminder that our actions, our words, shape the future of our country. This means taking responsibility for our actions, for our words, for our votes. It means standing up for what’s right, even when it’s hard.

It means engaging with our community, with our politics, with our culture. It means volunteering, protesting, creating, advocating. It means being the change we want to see. As the Speaker put it, “Responsibility is not a burden, but an opportunity.”

So, what’s next? How do we respond to Farrugia’s call? It starts with each of us, in our homes, our workplaces, our communities. It starts with truth, with peace, with responsibility. It starts now.