Abela vs Borg: Five Key Takeaways from the Xtra Debate

Last night, Malta’s political scene was abuzz with anticipation as Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Borg faced off in the first of two televised debates ahead of this year’s general election. The Xtra Debate, held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta, saw the two leaders clash on a range of issues, from the economy to immigration. Here are five talking points that dominated the conversation.

1. The Economy: A Tale of Two Visions

The economy, as expected, took centre stage. Abela, representing the Labour Party, touted his government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent economic recovery. He pointed to the €1.3 billion EU Recovery and Resilience Facility, which he said would “supercharge” Malta’s economic growth. Borg, from the Nationalist Party, was quick to counter, arguing that the government’s handling of the economy pre-pandemic was lacklustre, with growth stagnating and wages failing to keep pace with the cost of living.

“Abela boasted about the EU funds, but he forgot to mention that it’s the EU’s money, not his government’s achievement,” Borg quipped, drawing laughter from the audience. Abela, however, maintained that the government’s economic policies had put Malta on a strong footing, ready to bounce back from the pandemic.

2. Immigration: A Thorny Issue

Immigration was another hot topic. Abela defended his government’s record, citing the successful integration of many migrants and the creation of new jobs in sectors like construction and hospitality. He also took a swipe at Borg’s party, accusing them of using immigration as a political football.

Borg, however, was critical of the government’s handling of the migrant situation in Malta. He argued that the government had failed to address the root causes of migration and had not done enough to protect Malta’s borders. He also accused the government of being too soft on illegal immigration, a claim Abela dismissed as “scaremongering”.

3. Corruption: A Sticking Point

Corruption, or the lack thereof, was another key point of contention. Abela, who has faced criticism over his government’s handling of corruption allegations, maintained that his administration had a strong record on fighting corruption. He pointed to the setting up of the independent anti-corruption agency and the strengthening of the rule of law.

Borg, however, was having none of it. He accused the government of being too close to big business and of failing to act on corruption allegations. He also took a swipe at Abela’s appointment of his chief of staff Keith Schembri, who has been linked to corruption scandals, as a government minister.

4. Education: The Next Generation

Education also featured prominently in the debate. Abela highlighted his government’s investment in education, including the building of new schools and the introduction of free childcare. He also pointed to the government’s focus on digital literacy and the introduction of coding in schools.

Borg, however, argued that the government’s education policies were not doing enough to prepare students for the future. He called for a greater focus on vocational training and apprenticeships, as well as a review of the education system to ensure it was fit for purpose in the 21st century.

5. The Environment: A Green Future

The environment was another area where the two leaders differed. Abela highlighted his government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. He pointed to the government’s investment in renewable energy and its plans to phase out fossil fuel cars by 2030.

Borg, however, accused the government of not doing enough to protect Malta’s environment. He pointed to the government’s approval of controversial development projects, such as the db Group’s project in Marsascala, and its failure to meet its own environmental targets. He also called for a greater focus on sustainable tourism and the protection of Malta’s natural heritage.

As the debate drew to a close, both leaders sought to paint a picture of a brighter future under their leadership. Abela, the incumbent, sought to reassure voters that his government’s policies had put Malta on a strong footing, ready to face the challenges of the future. Borg, the challenger, sought to convince voters that it was time for a change, arguing that his party had the vision and the policies to take Malta forward.

With just over a month to go until election day, the debate was a timely reminder of the choice facing Malta’s voters. The next few weeks will see both leaders criss-crossing the country, seeking to win over undecided voters and shore up support among their base. The next Xtra Debate, scheduled for later this month, will provide another opportunity for the two leaders to set out their stalls and make their case to the nation.

But for now, the debate has ended, and the talking points will continue to dominate the headlines and the watercooler conversations in offices and homes across Malta. The election may still be a few weeks away, but the battle for votes is already well and truly underway.