Election Desk: The cast is complete

As the sun set over the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta, the political parties’ candidates for the upcoming election gathered, their shadows stretching across the cobblestones. The scene was a snapshot of democracy in motion, a reminder that in just a few months, these individuals will shape Malta’s future. Today, we take a closer look at the complete cast of candidates, their backgrounds, and their promises.

Labour’s Slate: Familiar Faces and New Blood

Robert Abela’s Labour Party has fielded a mix of experienced politicians and fresh faces. Among the familiar names is Chris Fearne, the Deputy Prime Minister, who will be contesting in the Ħamrun and Santa Venera district. Fearne, a doctor by profession, has been a key figure in the government’s COVID-19 response. Another prominent candidate is Owen Bonnici, the former Culture Minister, who will be running in the Żejtun and Marsascala district.

Labour has also given opportunities to new candidates. Arianne Ellul, a 29-year-old lawyer, will be contesting in the Birkirkara and Lija district. Ellul, who has been active in Labour’s youth wing, brings a youthful perspective to the party’s slate. The party has also fielded candidates from diverse backgrounds, including immigrants and members of the LGBTQ+ community, reflecting Malta’s multicultural society.

PN’s Lineup: Experience and Renewal

Bernard Grech’s Nationalist Party has fielded a slate with a blend of experience and renewal. Among the experienced candidates is former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, who will be contesting in the Ħaż-Żebbuġ and Għaxaq district. Muscat, who resigned as Prime Minister in January 2020, has been a controversial figure but remains a significant political force.

The PN has also given opportunities to younger candidates. Alex Muscat, a 32-year-old lawyer, will be contesting in the St. Julian’s and St. Andrew’s district. Muscat, who has been active in the PN’s youth wing, brings a fresh perspective to the party’s slate. The PN has also fielded candidates from diverse backgrounds, including members of the business community and civil society.

Independent Candidates: A Voice for Change

This election will also see a number of independent candidates, each with their own unique story and agenda for change. Among them is Arnold Cassola, a former PN MP who will be contesting in the Msida and Gżira district. Cassola, who left the PN in 2019, has been a vocal critic of both major parties. Another independent candidate is Carmel Cacopardo, a former Labour MP who will be contesting in the Rabat and Dingli district. Cacopardo, who left Labour in 2019, has been critical of the government’s handling of the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder investigation.

These independent candidates, along with others, could play a significant role in shaping the next government, acting as a check on the power of the two major parties.

What’s Next?

With the candidates now officially announced, the focus shifts to the campaign trail. Over the next few months, we can expect to see candidates knocking on doors, attending public meetings, and engaging with voters on social media. The election itself is scheduled for March 26, 2023, but the real campaigning has already begun.

As we move closer to election day, Hot Malta will continue to bring you the latest news and analysis from the campaign trail. We’ll be speaking to candidates, exploring the key issues, and providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

So, who will you be voting for? Let us know in the comments below. Remember, your vote is your voice, and it’s important that you use it.