Repubblika: Daring to Dream, Ready to Govern

Under the Cottonera’s Watchful Eyes

In the heart of the Three Cities, where the waves of the Grand Harbour lap against the ancient walls, a new political force is stirring. The Cottonera, Malta’s historic trio of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Isla, have long been the silent sentinels of our islands’ maritime past. But now, they’re witnessing a different kind of tide – one that’s carrying a bold political challenge to Malta’s shores.

Meet Repubblika

Repubblika, a political movement born out of the 2019 protests against the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, is ready to govern. Their journey from the streets to the political arena is a testament to Malta’s evolving political scene. This movement, which started as a collective cry for justice, has morphed into a political force that’s daring to dream of a different Malta.

Repubblika’s manifesto is a bold declaration of intent. It’s a 100-page document that’s as much a reflection of Malta’s current challenges as it is a vision for its future. From decentralisation to direct democracy, from environmental sustainability to social justice, Repubblika is promising a lot. But are they ready to deliver?

From Protest to Policy

Repubblika’s leaders, like former journalist and now political leader Robert Aquilina, are quick to point out that they’re not just about protest. “We’re not just here to shout slogans,” Aquilina says, “We’re here to govern.” Their manifesto is a practical blueprint for that governance, filled with specific policies and proposals.

Take, for instance, their plans for decentralisation. Repubblika wants to shift power from Valletta to local councils, giving Malta’s villages and towns a real say in how they’re run. They want to see more local decision-making, more local funding, and more local pride. It’s a vision that’s been whispered around Malta’s cafes and bars for years, but Repubblika is the first to put it squarely on the political table.

Or consider their plans for direct democracy. Repubblika wants to give Malta’s citizens a real say in how their country is run. They’re proposing regular referendums on key issues, and a system of citizen’s assemblies to debate and decide on policy. It’s a radical departure from Malta’s traditional political system, but it’s a departure that’s gaining traction among Malta’s younger voters.

Challenges Ahead

But governing is different from protesting. Repubblika faces significant challenges if they’re to turn their dreams into reality. They’ll need to build a party structure, raise funds, and of Malta’s political system. They’ll need to turn their manifesto into a workable programme for government, and they’ll need to do it quickly – Malta’s next general election is due in 2024.

Then there’s the question of whether Malta’s voters are ready for a new political force. Malta’s political scene has been dominated by the Labour and Nationalist parties for decades. Can Repubblika break that mould? Can they convince Malta’s voters that they’re ready to govern?

, but one thing’s for sure – Malta’s political scene is changing. The Cottonera, those silent sentinels of our past, are now witnesses to a new chapter in our political story. A chapter that’s being written by a movement that’s daring to dream, and ready to govern.