Abela’s Pledge: “We Know We Can Deliver”

Malta’s Prime Minister, Robert Abela, stood before a sea of supporters at the Labour Party’s headquarters in Pietà last night, his voice echoing through the streets of this bustling town. His message was clear: “We know we can deliver on all our promises.”

Promises Made, Promises Kept?

Abela’s statement comes at a time when the Labour Party is facing increasing scrutiny over its 2020 manifesto pledges. With the election just over a year away, the PM is keen to remind voters of his party’s track record and reassure them that they can trust Labour to follow through on their commitments.

But what does ‘delivering on promises’ mean in practice? We’ve taken a look at some of the key pledges made by the Labour Party in their 2020 manifesto and how they’re shaping up so far:

• Affordable Housing: The Labour Party promised to build 10,000 affordable homes by 2027. According to the Housing Authority, around 1,500 affordable homes have been completed or are under construction since the Labour Party took office in 2013.
• Education Reform: Labour pledged to invest €1 billion in education over five years. Since 2020, €300 million has been allocated, with projects including the construction of new schools and the implementation of a new curriculum.
• Healthcare Investment: The party promised to invest €1 billion in healthcare infrastructure. Since 2020, €200 million has been allocated, with projects including the construction of a new St. Luke’s Hospital and the upgrade of Mater Dei Hospital.

Challenges Ahead

While the Labour Party can point to significant progress on many of their pledges, they also face considerable challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has put significant strain on the public purse, with the government’s deficit expected to reach €1.5 billion this year. Meanwhile, the ongoing war in Ukraine is driving up energy and food prices, posing further economic headwinds.

Abela acknowledged these challenges in his speech, stating, “We know that there are still many challenges ahead, but we are ready to face them. We have a plan, and we are working tirelessly to deliver on it.”

Reaction from the Opposition

The Opposition Nationalist Party was quick to respond to Abela’s speech, with PN leader Bernard Grech accusing the Labour Party of “talking the talk but not walking the walk.” Grech pointed to a number of high-profile projects that have been delayed or shelved, including the long-awaited Malta University Hospital and the extension of the Marsa Sportsground.

Grech also took aim at the government’s handling of the economy, stating, “While the Labour Party was busy making promises, the PN was busy making plans. We have a clear vision for Malta’s future, and we are ready to deliver on it.”

With the election just over a year away, both parties are gearing up for a fierce campaign. The Labour Party will be looking to build on their track record and remind voters of the progress made under their watch. Meanwhile, the Nationalist Party will be seeking to capitalize on any perceived failures or missteps by the government and paint themselves as a credible alternative.

One thing is certain: the coming months will be crucial in shaping the political scene in Malta. As Abela put it, “The future of our country is in our hands. Together, we can build a better Malta for everyone.”