Election Desk: Highlights from the Campaign’s Third Week

As the sun set over the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta last Friday, the political scene in Malta was abuzz with activity. The third week of campaigning for the upcoming general election had come to an end, leaving us with a week to go until D-Day. Let’s take a look at some of the key moments and issues that dominated the week.

Party Leaders Take to the Streets

The week kicked off with the leaders of the two main political parties, Prime Minister Robert Abela (Labour Party) and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech (Nationalist Party), hitting the streets to connect with voters. Abela started his week in the Three Cities, where he outlined his party’s vision for the historic region. Grech, on the other hand, spent his first day in the northern town of Mellieha, promising to ‘renew’ the area.

Both leaders used these opportunities to reiterate their party’s key messages. Abela focused on Labour’s record in government, highlighting achievements in areas like healthcare and education. Greach, meanwhile, continued to hammer home his party’s pledge to ‘renew’ Malta, promising a break from the current administration’s policies.

Economy and Jobs Take Centre Stage

The economy and jobs were the main topics of discussion at a debate hosted by the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry. The event saw representatives from all major political parties discussing their plans for Malta’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

Labour’s deputy leader, Chris Fearne, emphasized his party’s track record in attracting foreign investment and creating jobs. The Nationalist Party’s deputy leader, David Agius, however, criticized the government’s handling of the economy, arguing that Malta needs a change in direction to stimulate growth.

Environmental Concerns Raised

The environment was another hot topic this week, with both parties promising ambitious plans to tackle climate change. Labour announced a €1 billion investment in green projects over the next five years, while the Nationalists pledged to make Malta carbon neutral by 2030.

However, environmental groups have criticized both parties for not going far enough. They argue that Malta needs a more radical approach to tackle the climate crisis, including a ban on single-use plastics and a significant increase in renewable energy targets.

As the campaign enters its final week, expect to see more of the same – parties crisscrossing the country, making last-minute promises, and trying to win over undecided voters. With the polls suggesting a close race, every vote could count on June 9.

“This election is about the future of our country,” said Malta’s President, George Vella, in a speech this week. “It’s about the kind of Malta we want to live in, and the kind of Malta we want to leave behind for future generations.”

So, as you make your way to the polling station next Saturday, remember Vella’s words. Your vote matters. Make it count.