As the sun set over the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta, the political scene of Malta was beginning to shift. The 2022 candidate lists for the upcoming local council elections were in, and one thing was clear: the number of women candidates was on the rise.

A Boost in Female Representation

The increase in women candidates is a significant change in Malta’s political scene. According to the Nationalist Party (PN), the number of women candidates has risen by 25% compared to the 2019 local council elections. The Labour Party (PL) has also seen an increase, with their tally almost doubling.

This surge in female candidates is a welcome sight in a country where women have historically been underrepresented in politics. Malta ranks 23rd in the European Union for women’s representation in national parliaments, according to the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

PN Numbers Dip, PL Almost Doubles

While the number of women candidates is rising, the PN’s overall candidate tally has fallen. The party has fielded 114 candidates, a decrease from the 130 candidates in the 2019 elections. This drop comes amidst internal struggles within the PN, with some high-profile members opting not to run again.

Meanwhile, the PL has almost doubled its candidate tally, fielding 177 candidates compared to the 92 in 2019. This increase reflects the party’s strategy to contest more seats, aiming to strengthen its hold on local councils.

Local Councils: The Battleground

Local councils are the battleground for these elections. With 68 councils across Malta and Gozo, these elections will determine who represents the people at the local level. From Rabat to Żurrieq, from Sliema to Xagħra, every town and village will have its say.

For many, these elections are a chance to voice their concerns about local issues. From traffic congestion in Birkirkara to the lack of parking spaces in Qormi, from the need for more green spaces in Msida to the preservation of historical sites in Mdina, these elections offer an opportunity for the people to make their voices heard.

As the campaign period begins, the streets of Malta will come alive with political banners and posters. The air will be filled with the sound of campaign slogans and promises. And amidst it all, the rise of women candidates will be a beacon of hope for a more balanced political future.

So, as we head into these elections, let’s remember the words of former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, “More than ever before in human history, we share a common destiny. We can master it only if we face it together and build a common future.” Let’s make sure that future is inclusive and representative of all Maltese people.