Former Chamber President Sounds Warning on Big Promises

Standing at the historic Auberge d’Italie in Valletta, former Chamber of Commerce President Marthese Portelli had a stark warning for Malta’s business community and the public at large. “Be wary of those who promise a lot,” she cautioned, her words echoing through the cobbled streets of the capital city.

Promises and Reality

Portelli, who led the Chamber from 2017 to 2021, was speaking at a recent event hosted by the Malta Chamber of SMEs. Her warning comes amidst a political and economic scene marked by ambitious promises and grand projects. From the controversial Three Cities project to the much-debated Malta-Gozo tunnel, big promises have become a staple of local politics and business.

“We’ve seen promises of jobs, of economic growth, of transforming our islands. But we must ask ourselves, what’s the reality? What’s the track record?” Portelli questioned, her gaze shifting towards the Grand Master’s Palace, a symbol of Malta’s historic resilience.

Lessons from the Past

Portelli pointed to past projects that promised much but delivered little. “Remember the Three Cities project? It was meant to be a breakthrough, a tourism magnet. Yet, years later, we’re still waiting for the promised results,” she said, her voice tinged with disappointment.

She also cited the Malta-Gozo tunnel, a project that has been in the pipeline for decades. “We’ve been promised a tunnel since I was a child. It’s a great idea, but we need to see action, not just promises,” she added, her words resonating with the audience.

Due Diligence and Transparency

Portelli called for due diligence in evaluating promises, urging the public and the business community to ask tough questions. “We need to look at the feasibility studies, the business plans. We need to ask, who’s behind these promises? What’s their track record?” she said.

She also emphasized the importance of transparency. “We need to know the details. Who’s benefiting? Who’s footing the bill? The public has a right to know,” she asserted, her voice echoing the spirit of Malta’s historic struggle for accountability.

Portelli’s warning comes at a time when Malta is grappling with several high-profile projects, from the controversial Three Cities development to the proposed Malta-Gozo tunnel. Her call for due diligence and transparency reflects a growing sentiment among the public and the business community to hold those in power accountable.

As the sun set over the Grand Harbour, casting a golden glow over Valletta, Portelli’s words served as a reminder of Malta’s historic resilience and its people’s enduring spirit of skepticism. “We’ve been here for thousands of years. We’ve seen empires rise and fall. We know a promise when we see one. And we know when it’s time to ask for more,” she concluded, her words resonating with the city’s rich history.