As the sun set over the Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta, the political spotlight shifted to TVM’s Xtra studio for the much-anticipated debate between Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech. The 90-minute showdown, moderated by the ever-poised Maria Attard, offered a glimpse into the minds of Malta’s top political figures. Here are five key talking points that emerged from the debate:

Abela, representing the Labour Party, painted a picture of economic resilience, citing Malta’s strong recovery post-COVID. He pointed to the country’s successful vaccination drive and the government’s €1.3 billion economic stimulus package. Grech, however, argued that the economy was stagnant, with unemployment figures stagnating at 4.1%. He criticized the government’s handling of the economy, claiming that Malta was losing its competitive edge in Europe.

Local economists, like Dr. Joseph Farrugia, have been vocal about the need for structural reforms to boost productivity and competitiveness. The debate highlighted the stark contrast in economic visions, with Abela focusing on growth and Grech emphasizing the need for reform.

Housing was another hot topic, with both leaders trading blows over affordability and supply. Abela defended his government’s record, citing the 10,000 new apartments built under Labour’s watch. Grech, however, argued that these apartments were not affordable for the average Maltese, pointing to the high prices in areas like Msida and Gżira.

Local real estate agents, like Frank Salt, have reported a surge in demand but a lack of supply in the affordable segment. The debate underscored the need for policies that balance supply with affordability, a challenge that will face the next government.

Grech sought to capitalize on recent corruption scandals, accusing Abela of turning a blind eye to corruption within his party. He referenced the recent arrest of former Minister Konrad Mizzi and the ongoing inquiry into the sale of Maltese passports. Abela, however, dismissed these allegations, claiming that his government had a strong track record on corruption, citing the introduction of the Whistleblower Act and the establishment of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).

Local anti-corruption activists, like Manuel Delia, have been critical of the government’s handling of these scandals. The debate highlighted the need for transparency and accountability, with both leaders promising to clean up politics if elected.

Abela and Grech also clashed over the environment, with both leaders acknowledging the urgency of the climate crisis. Abela pointed to his government’s investment in renewable energy, like the Delimara power station, and the introduction of the Climate Change Act. Grech, however, accused the government of greenwashing, citing the lack of progress on reducing Malta’s carbon footprint.

Local environmentalists, like the Moviment Grażża, have been vocal about the need for ambitious climate action. The debate underscored the need for concrete policies that go beyond rhetoric, with both leaders promising to prioritize the environment if elected.

The debate ended with a discussion on education, with both leaders acknowledging the need for reform. Abela pointed to his government’s investment in education, including the introduction of free childcare and the expansion of early childhood education. Grech, however, argued that the education system was failing Malta’s youth, citing low PISA scores and a lack of vocational training.

Local educators, like Dr. Joseph Cuschieri, have been calling for a holistic review of the education system. The debate highlighted the need for a forward-thinking education policy that equips Malta’s youth for the future.