Malta’s Political Compass: A Conversation with Hon. Owen Bonnici

Picture this: a bustling morning at the Is-Suq tal-Belt in Valletta. The aroma of fresh bread and coffee fills the air as locals and tourists alike go about their day. Among them is Hon. Owen Bonnici, former Minister of Justice and current MP for Ħamrun, quietly sipping his espresso. He’s not just another face in the crowd; he’s a man with a mission, one that he believes is deeply rooted in the politics of values.

Values: The Cornerstone of Politics

For Bonnici, the politics of values is not just a catchphrase. It’s a philosophy that guides his every move in politics. “Values are the foundation of our society,” he tells me, as we find a quiet spot amidst the morning hustle. “They guide our actions, shape our policies, and ultimately, define us as a nation.”

Bonnici believes that Malta’s political scene has often been dominated by a ‘win at all costs’ mentality. “We’ve lost sight of the fact that politics is about serving the people, not scoring political points,” he says, his voice steady yet passionate. “The politics of values is about putting people first, always.”

Upholding Values in Action

Bonnici points to his time as Minister of Justice as an example of how he’s tried to uphold these values. “We introduced the Divorce Bill, the Civil Unions Bill, and the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill,” he says, ticking them off on his fingers. “These weren’t easy bills to pass, but they were the right thing to do. They were about respecting people’s choices, their dignity, and their rights.”

He also cites his work on the Whistleblower Protection Bill, which he sees as a testament to his commitment to transparency and accountability. “It’s about protecting those who speak out against wrongdoing, who stand up for what’s right,” he says. “That’s a value worth fighting for.”

Challenges and Critics

Bonnici is quick to acknowledge that upholding values in politics isn’t easy. “There are always challenges, always critics,” he says, a wry smile playing on his lips. “But that’s part of the job. It’s about staying true to your principles, even when it’s tough.”

He’s also aware that his stance on certain issues, like his support for LGBTQ+ rights and his advocacy for drug policy reform, has drawn criticism. But he stands firm. “I believe in a Malta that’s inclusive, that’s compassionate, that’s forward-thinking. And I’m not afraid to stand up for that.”

Bonnici believes that the politics of values isn’t just about individuals, but about creating a culture where values are at the heart of everything we do. “It’s about changing the way we think, the way we act, the way we govern,” he says. “It’s about creating a better Malta, for everyone.”

As we wrap up our conversation, Bonnici looks out at the bustling market, a thoughtful expression on his face. “This is what it’s all about,” he says, gesturing to the scene around us. “It’s about the people, their lives, their dreams. That’s why I do what I do. That’s the politics of values.”