It’s 7 AM on election day, and I’m already late. Not late for the polls – I’ve got my ID and slip ready – but late for the first of many coffee appointments I’ve scheduled with candidates. Malta’s election season is a whirlwind of meet-and-greets, manifesto launches, and late-night debates. As a journalist, it’s my job to navigate this political labyrinth, but with so many people to meet and so little time, it’s like trying to drink from a fire hydrant.

The Morning Rush

My first stop is Caffe Cordina in Valletta. It’s a popular spot for politicians, and today, it’s buzzing with candidates and supporters. I’m meeting Dr. Alex Muscat, the PN candidate for Ħamrun. He’s a GP, and we chat about healthcare, education, and the challenges of balancing politics with his medical practice. As we finish our coffees, he checks his watch. “I’ve got another meeting in 15 minutes,” he says, “across town.” I look at my watch too. I’ve got three more interviews before lunch.

The Midday Marathon

Next, I’m off to meet Dr. Clifton Grima, the Labour candidate for Ħal Lija. We meet at Il-Bistrot in Lija, a cozy spot with a view of the parish church. We discuss his plans for the locality, the environment, and the economy. As we wrap up, he hands me a copy of his manifesto. “It’s all in there,” he says, “but I’m always happy to chat more.” I thank him and rush off, already late for my next appointment.

After a quick lunch at a pastizzeria in Mosta, I meet Dr. David Agius, the PN candidate for Rabat. We sit at a table outside Il-Għawxija, a popular spot for locals. We talk about tourism, culture, and the challenges of preserving Malta’s historic sites. As we finish, he points to the Domus Romana across the street. “We need to protect our heritage,” he says, “but also make it accessible to everyone.” I nod, making a mental note to check out the site later.

The Evening Rush

My final meeting of the day is with Dr. Rosianne Cutajar, the Labour candidate for Birkirkara. We meet at The George, a bustling pub in the heart of B’kara. We discuss her plans for the locality, her vision for Malta’s future, and her thoughts on the role of women in politics. As we finish, she looks at her watch. “I’ve got a debate later,” she says, “but I’m always here to chat more.” I thank her and head home, exhausted but satisfied with the day’s work.

As I walk home, I pass by the polling station in Birkirkara. The queue is long, but the mood is festive. People are chatting, laughing, and even singing. It’s a reminder that, despite the rush and the stress, election season is also a time of community and conversation.

So, with just days to go until election day, I’ll be back on the campaign trail, meeting more candidates, and trying to drink from that fire hydrant. After all, in Malta’s vibrant democracy, every voice matters, and every vote counts.

Remember, Malta, your vote is your voice. Use it wisely.