Five Talking Points from Abela and Borg’s Xtra Debate

Last night, Malta’s political scene was alive with the sound of clashing views as Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech faced off in the first of their pre-election debates. Held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta, the ‘Xtra Debate’ was a chance for the two leaders to size each other up, with the general election just around the corner. Here are five key talking points from the evening.

1. The Economy: A Tale of Two Visions

The economy, as expected, took centre stage. Abela, from the ruling Labour Party, pointed to Malta’s strong economic growth and low unemployment rates under his leadership. He highlighted the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the successful vaccination drive and the €800 million recovery plan. Grech, from the Nationalist Party, countered with criticism of the government’s handling of the economy, arguing that Malta’s growth has been sluggish compared to other EU countries. He also took aim at the government’s handling of the pandemic, suggesting that the recovery plan is too little, too late.

2. Corruption: The Elephant in the Room

Corruption was another hot topic. Grech pressed Abela on the government’s handling of corruption cases, including the ‘Egrant’ scandal and the ongoing ‘Keith Schembri case’. He accused the government of failing to act swiftly and decisively on allegations of corruption. Abela, in turn, defended his government’s record, pointing to the establishment of the independent anti-corruption commission and the government’s cooperation with international bodies in investigating corruption allegations.

3. The Environment: A Race Against Time

The environment, and specifically climate change, also featured prominently. Both leaders acknowledged the urgency of the issue, but their proposed solutions differed. Abela highlighted the government’s plans to invest in renewable energy and improve public transport. Grech, however, accused the government of not doing enough, pointing to Malta’s high carbon emissions and the lack of a clear plan for achieving carbon neutrality.

4. The Church: A Divisive Issue

The role of the Catholic Church in Malta was another contentious issue. Grech criticized the government’s handling of the church’s role in education and social services, arguing that the government has given the church too much influence. Abela, on the other hand, defended the government’s approach, pointing to a balance between church and state.

5. The Election: A Battle for the Soul of Malta

As the debate drew to a close, both leaders made their final pitches to voters. Abela, the incumbent, presented himself as a steady hand, guiding Malta through challenging times. Grech, the challenger, painted a picture of a Malta that has lost its way, promising to restore honesty, integrity, and prosperity. With the election just weeks away, the debate served as a stark reminder of the choice that Malta’s voters face.

As the two leaders left the stage, the audience was left to ponder the future of Malta. With so much at stake, the coming weeks will be crucial as the two sides make their final pitches to the electorate.