Sarah Bajada: ‘My Son’s Childhood Comes First’

Imagine, for a moment, the bustling streets of St. Julian’s on a sunny afternoon. The aroma of fresh pastizzi wafts through the air, the hum of chatter fills the square, and yet, amidst the vibrant scene, one person stands out – Sarah Bajada, Malta’s Minister for Gozo, is pushing her son on a swing at the children’s playground. This is not a political stunt, but a mother’s commitment to her child’s happiness, even as she navigates the complexities of her ministerial role.

Balancing Politics and Parenthood

Sarah Bajada, the Minister for Gozo, has always been open about her family life. She’s a mother of two, with her youngest, a lively seven-year-old, still in primary school. But when she was appointed to her current post, she made a conscious decision to keep her son away from the public eye, especially during political campaigns. “I want him to enjoy being a child,” she says, “without the pressures of politics or the media.”

This decision hasn’t been easy. As a public figure, Bajada’s life is often under scrutiny. Yet, she remains firm in her resolve. “I’ve seen other children of politicians grow up too fast, too soon,” she explains. “I don’t want that for my son. He deserves a normal childhood.”

Campaigning Without the Child

Bajada’s recent campaign for the MEP elections was a testament to her commitment. While she was out meeting voters, her son was at home, enjoying his favorite cartoons or playing football with his friends. “I missed him, of course,” she admits, “but I knew he was having fun, being a kid.”

Her campaign team was instructed to keep her son away from campaign events. Instead, they focused on issues, on meeting voters, and on Bajada’s vision for Malta. “We didn’t need gimmicks,” says her campaign manager, “Sarah’s work speaks for itself.”

The Future: Politics and Parenthood

Bajada’s approach to politics and parenthood is refreshing, especially in a world where politicians are often expected to put their personal lives on hold. But for Bajada, it’s a simple choice. “My son comes first,” she says, “and I’ll continue to protect his childhood, no matter what.”

As for her political career, Bajada is set to continue serving Malta, especially Gozo, her beloved home. She’s already planning her next steps, her next campaigns. But for now, she’s content to watch her son grow up, one swing at a time.

“I want him to look back on his childhood and smile,” she says, “not remember it as a whirlwind of politics and cameras.”

And so, the next time you see Sarah Bajada in St. Julian’s, pushing her son on the swings, remember, it’s not just a mother’s duty, but a promise she’s made to her child. A promise to let him enjoy being a child, even as she serves Malta.