It’s that time of year again, when Malta’s political scene transforms into a vibrant, if not slightly chaotic, canvas of colours. Red, blue, and green posters adorn every street corner, from the bustling Republic Street in Valletta to the quaint alleys of Mdina. The 2022 Maltese general election is just around the corner, and with it, the usual buzz of campaign promises, political banter, and a healthy dose of controversy.

The State of Play

The incumbent Labour Party, led by Prime Minister Robert Abela, is seeking a second term after a landslide victory in 2020. Their main rivals, the Nationalist Party, have a new leader at the helm, Bernard Grech, who’s promising a fresh start and a break from the political status quo. The third party, the Progressive Party, led by former Labour MP Marlene Farrugia, is also vying for a slice of the pie, promising a centrist alternative.

But what’s really on the minds of Maltese voters this election season? Hot Malta hit the streets to find out.

Issues at the Forefront

Economy and Cost of Living

Topping the list of concerns is the economy and the cost of living. Malta’s economic growth has been strong in recent years, but so have prices. From fuel to food, the cost of living has been on the rise, and voters are eager to know how each party plans to tackle this issue.

Corruption and Transparency

Corruption has been a thorny issue in Maltese politics, and voters are looking for concrete steps towards greater transparency and accountability. The recent revelations from the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder investigation have only served to heighten these concerns.

Environment and Sustainability

With climate change an ever-growing threat, Maltese voters are keen to know how each party plans to address environmental issues. From waste management to renewable energy, this is a hot topic on everyone’s lips.

The Campaign Trail

This election season has seen its fair share of drama. From Labour’s ‘It-Tfal’ campaign, which has been accused of being too focused on the party’s leader rather than its policies, to the Nationalists’ ‘Bernard Grech – The Change We Need’ slogan, which has been criticized for being too vague, there’s no shortage of talking points.

But it’s not all politics as usual. This election is also seeing a rise in social media activism, with young Maltese voters using platforms like TikTok and Instagram to discuss politics and engage with their peers. The traditional political rallies and door-to-door canvassing are still going strong, but they’re now accompanied by a digital campaign trail that’s proving to be just as influential.

What’s Next?

With the campaign in full swing and the election set for 26 March, Maltese voters are gearing up to make their voices heard. The coming weeks will see a flurry of political activity, from debates and rallies to last-minute campaigning. But one thing’s for sure – come 27 March, Malta’s political scene will look very different.

So, Hot Malta readers, what’s on your mind this election season? What issues are you most concerned about? And who do you think will come out on top? Let us know in the comments below.