Malta’s Voice in the Diaspora: A Nairobi-Based Maltese Man Fights for Overseas Voting Rights

Imagine this: It’s election day in Malta, and you’re thousands of miles away, living in Nairobi, Kenya. You’re a Maltese citizen, but your vote doesn’t count. This is the reality for thousands of Maltese expats worldwide, including Mark Azzopardi, a 35-year-old marketing professional based in Nairobi. But Mark isn’t taking this sitting down. He’s challenging the lack of overseas voting rights, one petition at a time.

From Birkirkara to Nairobi: Mark’s Journey

Mark was born and raised in Birkirkara, Malta. After completing his studies, he moved to the UK for work, then to Kenya five years ago. Despite the distance, Malta remains close to his heart. “I’m Maltese, through and through,” he says, “I want to have a say in how my country is run, even from afar.”

Mark’s not alone in his predicament. According to the Maltese government, there are over 200,000 Maltese citizens living abroad. Yet, only those living in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland can vote by post. Those further afield, like Mark, are left out in the cold.

Petitioning for Change

In 2019, Mark started an online petition, calling for the extension of voting rights to all Maltese citizens, regardless of their location. “I thought, if I’m feeling this way, there must be others too,” he says. He was right. The petition gathered over 5,000 signatures, a testament to the silent voice of Maltese expats.

Mark’s not stopping at the petition. He’s also been lobbying politicians, writing to the Prime Minister, and rallying support on social media. “I’ve had some positive responses,” he says, “But we need more. We need our voice to be heard, loud and clear.”

Legal Challenges and Support

Mark’s fight isn’t just about voting rights; it’s about equality. He argues that the current system discriminates against Maltese expats. He’s not alone in this view. The Malta Human Rights Commission has also raised concerns about the lack of overseas voting rights.

Mark has sought legal advice and is considering taking the matter to court. “I’m not doing this for personal gain,” he says, “I’m doing this for every Maltese citizen living abroad who wants their voice to be heard.”

Mark’s fight has gained traction in Malta. Local NGOs like Repubblika and Moviment Graffitti have thrown their weight behind his cause. Even the Opposition has promised to prioritize overseas voting rights if elected.

: Mark’s Call to Action

Mark’s fight is far from over. He’s calling on all Maltese expats to join his cause. “We need to make our voice heard,” he says, “We need to show the government that we matter, that we’re not just numbers abroad, but active participants in Malta’s democracy.”

Mark’s story is a reminder that democracy isn’t just about casting a vote; it’s about having the right to do so. It’s about equality, fairness, and being heard. It’s about Mark Azzopardi in Nairobi, and every Maltese expat like him, fighting for their voice to be counted.