Putting people before profit: A call for discernment at the polls

Imagine standing at the bustling Republic Street in Valletta, the sun casting a warm glow on the historic buildings. Now, picture that street lined not with tourists, but with locals, their faces etched with worry. This isn’t a scene from a dystopian film, but a reality we could face if we don’t prioritise people over profit at the polls.

Profit over people: A growing concern

Malta, with its thriving economy and booming tourism sector, has seen a surge in development projects. While these projects promise growth and jobs, they often come at a cost – the displacement of locals, increased traffic congestion, and strain on resources. The question is, are we growing for the sake of growth, or are we growing sustainably, with our people at the heart of our decisions?

Take the proposed development of the former Royal Naval Hospital in Bighi, Kalkara. While it promises to transform the area into a luxury resort, it also threatens to displace local residents and small businesses. This is just one example of many where profit seems to be taking precedence over people’s well-being and quality of life.

Discernment at the polls: A critical role for voters

As voters, we have a critical role to play in ensuring that our elected officials prioritise our needs and well-being. We need to ask tough questions, demand transparency, and make informed decisions at the polls. We need to vote not just for the party that promises the most development, but for the one that promises the most responsible development.

We need to elect officials who understand that development isn’t just about attracting foreign investment or boosting the GDP. It’s about creating a balanced, sustainable future where our children can thrive, where our seniors can live with dignity, and where our communities can flourish.

Voices of change: A glimmer of hope

Thankfully, there are voices of reason and resistance. Environmental NGOs like Flimkien Għal Ambjent Aħjar and Mediterranea are fighting for a more sustainable Malta. Local councils like those in Birkirkara and Naxxar are pushing back against overdevelopment. These are signs that people power can make a difference.

But we need more than just a few voices. We need a chorus of discerning voters who demand a better future, a future where profit serves people, not the other way around.

So, as you stand in line at the polls, remember the faces of those worried locals. Remember that your vote is their hope for a better future. Vote with discernment. Vote for people. Vote for a Malta that puts its people first.

“We are not a number, we are a community. And we deserve to be heard and respected,” says Maria, a long-time resident of Bighi. Let’s make sure our votes echo Maria’s sentiment and send a clear message to our elected officials.