Malta’s Political scene: A Shifting Balance of Power

As the sun set over the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta on the eve of the 2022 local council elections, a new political dawn was breaking. The results painted a clear picture: women candidates were rising, while the Nationalist Party (PN) was falling, and the Labour Party (PL) was almost doubling its tally. But what does this mean for Malta’s political scene?

Women Candidates: A Growing Force

The 2022 elections marked a significant milestone for women in Maltese politics. With a record 157 women candidates, they made up 31% of the total candidates, a stark contrast to the 20% in the 2019 European Parliament elections. This surge was evident across all districts, from the historic streets of Rabat to the bustling towns of Birkirkara and Żabbar.

Dr. Maria Dimech, a political scientist at the University of Malta, attributes this increase to a growing awareness of gender equality and a shift in political culture. “Malta is seeing a new generation of women who are politically engaged, informed, and eager to make a difference,” she says.

PN’s Decline: A Changing Tide

The PN, Malta’s main opposition party, saw a significant drop in its candidate numbers. From 244 candidates in 2019, it fielded only 173 this time around. This decline was reflected in the results, with the PN losing several councils it previously held, including the key district of Pietà.

PN leader Bernard Grech acknowledged the defeat, stating, “We need to understand why people are not voting for us. We need to listen, learn, and adapt.” The party is now facing introspection, with some calling for a change in leadership and strategy.

PL’s Rise: Almost Doubling Its Tally

Meanwhile, the PL almost doubled its candidate numbers, fielding 317 candidates compared to 166 in 2019. This strategy paid off, with the party winning a majority of councils, including key districts like Żebbuġ and Xagħra.

PL leader Robert Abela attributed the success to his party’s focus on local issues and community engagement. “We’ve been listening to people, understanding their needs, and delivering on our promises,” he said.

: The Road to the Next General Election

The local council elections are often seen as a barometer for the general election. With the next one due in 2024, both parties are already gearing up. The PN will be looking to rebuild and reconnect with voters, while the PL will be aiming to maintain its momentum and build on its successes.

For Dr. Dimech, the rise of women candidates is a positive sign for Maltese politics. “We’re seeing a shift towards a more inclusive and representative democracy,” she says. “Let’s hope this trend continues and strengthens in the lead up to the next general election.”

As Malta’s political parties look ahead to 2024, one thing is clear: the island’s political scene is changing, and women are at the forefront of this shift.