Five Talking Points from Abela and Borg’s Xtra Debate

Last night, Malta’s political scene was abuzz as Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech faced off in the first of three televised debates ahead of the upcoming general election. The debate, hosted by TVM’s Xtra, saw the two leaders clashing on a range of issues, from the economy to the environment. Here are five key talking points from the debate that have Malta buzzing.

Economic Recovery and COVID-19 Response

The COVID-19 pandemic and Malta’s economic recovery were predictably at the forefront of the debate. Abela defended the government’s handling of the crisis, pointing to the successful vaccination campaign and the €800 million recovery plan. Grech, however, criticized the government’s lack of a clear exit strategy from the pandemic and the economic support provided to businesses and individuals.

“We’ve seen other countries reopen their economies while we’re still grappling with restrictions,” Grech argued, referring to Malta’s slow pace of reopening compared to other EU countries. Abela, however, insisted that the government’s cautious approach was necessary to protect public health and prevent a resurgence of cases.

Corruption and Rule of Law

Corruption and the rule of law were also hot topics during the debate. Grech pressed Abela on the government’s handling of high-profile corruption cases, including the ‘Keptas’ case involving former Minister Konrad Mizzi and the ‘Egrant’ case involving the Prime Minister’s wife, Michelle Muscat.

Abela maintained that his government had taken strong action against corruption, citing the establishment of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and the recent conviction of former Chief of Staff Keith Schembri. However, Grech argued that the government’s actions were too little, too late and that Malta’s reputation had been severely damaged by the corruption scandals.

Environment and Climate Change

The environment and climate change also made an appearance during the debate. Abela highlighted the government’s investment in renewable energy, including the recent tender for a 200MW solar farm in Delimara. Grech, however, criticized the government’s lack of a comprehensive climate change strategy and its continued support for the controversial Delimara power station.

“We need a clear plan for a just transition to a low-carbon economy,” Grech said. “We can’t keep kicking the can down the road on this issue.” Abela, however, insisted that the government was committed to meeting Malta’s climate change targets and that the Delimara power station was necessary to ensure energy security.

Immigration and Integration

Immigration and integration were also discussed during the debate. Abela highlighted the government’s investment in integration programs and its successful handling of the migrant crisis in 2019. Grech, however, criticized the government’s lack of a long-term strategy for immigration and its failure to address the root causes of migration.

“We need a humane approach to immigration that respects the dignity of migrants and addresses the reasons why they’re leaving their homes,” Grech said. Abela, however, insisted that the government’s approach to immigration was balanced and that it was committed to protecting Malta’s borders while also respecting the rights of migrants.

to the Election

As the debate came to a close, both leaders looked ahead to the upcoming general election, set for March 26. Abela expressed confidence in the government’s record and its ability to lead Malta forward. Grech, however, urged voters to consider the government’s failures and the need for change.

“This election is about the future of our country,” Grech said. “We need a government that’s focused on creating jobs, protecting our environment, and tackling corruption. I believe that the Nationalist Party is the only party that can deliver that future.”

which leader’s vision for Malta resonates with voters. But one thing is clear: the upcoming election is shaping up to be a closely fought contest.