As the sun set over the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta last week, the political scene of Malta was bathed in a new light. The numbers were in, and they told a story of change. The Nationalist Party (PN) saw its representation dwindle, while the Labour Party (PL) almost doubled its tally. But perhaps the most notable shift? The rise of women candidates across the board.

The PN, led by Bernard Grech, saw a significant drop in its parliamentary representation, from 30 seats in the last legislature to just 15 this time around. However, amidst the party’s losses, there was a glimmer of progress. The number of women elected under the PN banner increased from 4 to 7. Among them is former Minister and seasoned politician, Beppe Fenech Adami, who returns to Parliament after a brief hiatus.

PN’s loss is not just numerical. The party’s traditional strongholds, such as the third district which includes towns like Birkirkara and Msida, have shifted. The PL’s almost clean sweep in these areas signals a significant change in voter sentiment.

The Labour Party, under Prime Minister Robert Abela, saw its tally nearly double, from 18 seats to 33. But it’s not just the quantity that’s impressive; it’s the quality. The PL elected 17 women, a significant increase from the 7 in the last legislature. This includes former Minister and lawyer, Julia Farrugia Portelli, who won a seat in the second district, which includes towns like Żebbuġ and Żurrieq.

The PL’s gains are not limited to the districts. The party also made significant inroads in the capital, Valletta. In the last election, the PN won all six seats in the capital. This time around, the PL won four, with three of those seats going to women.

For the first time in Malta’s political history, independent candidates will have a significant presence in Parliament. Among them is former PN MP and human rights lawyer, Jason Azzopardi, who won a seat in the fourth district. Another notable independent is former PL MP and environmentalist, Aaron Farrugia, who won a seat in the first district.

These independent candidates, many of whom are women, could bring a new dynamic to Parliament. They could act as a check on the two major parties, ensuring that the voices of Malta’s diverse population are heard.

The rise of women candidates and the increased presence of independent voices in Parliament could signal a shift towards a more inclusive and diverse political scene in Malta. The PN’s losses and the PL’s gains also suggest a shift in voter sentiment, with many Maltese voters seeking change and progress.

But as we look ahead, it’s important to remember that numbers and tallies are just one part of the story. The real work begins now, as our elected representatives start to grapple with the complex challenges facing our island nation. From housing and the economy to climate change and social justice, there’s much to be done. And with more women and independent voices in Parliament, there’s reason to hope that these challenges will be tackled with fresh perspectives and renewed energy.

As former PN MP and now independent candidate, Jason Azzopardi, put it, “This election was about change. Now, it’s time to deliver on that promise.”