Buġibba Square Saga: AD Calls for Stronger Councils
Buġibba’s Square Saga: A Tale of Two Councils
As you stroll along Triq it-Torri in Buġibba, the sight that greets you is one of a town held hostage. The once bustling square, now a labyrinth of scaffolding and dust, has been under construction for what feels like an eternity. The question on everyone’s lips: When will Buġibba’s square see the light of day?
A Tale of Two Councils
The Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) has been vocal about the Buġibba square works, arguing that the project’s longevity is a symptom of weak local councils. AD’s spokesperson, Michael Briguglio, told Hot Malta, “This is not about pointing fingers, but about highlighting the need for stronger, more efficient local councils.”
The project, initiated by the previous council led by the Partit Nazzjonalista (PN), has seen several delays and changes in plans. The current Labour Party (PL) administration has inherited the project, with promises to complete it by the end of 2022. But with the square still a construction site, AD is questioning the councils’ ability to manage such projects.
The Numbers Game
Buġibba’s square project is not an isolated case. According to AD, many local projects are facing similar delays and inefficiencies. Briguglio cited the example of the St. Paul’s Bay promenade project, which started in 2018 and is still not complete. “These are not small projects. They involve significant investment of public funds. We need to ask, are our councils equipped to handle such responsibilities?”
AD is calling for a review of local council structures and powers. They propose increasing the number of councils, reducing their size, and granting them more autonomy. Briguglio believes this could lead to better decision-making and more efficient project management.
The Way Forward
With local council elections due in 2023, AD’s call for reform is timely. But it’s not just about politics. It’s about the people of Buġibba and other towns who deserve to see their projects completed, their spaces revitalized. As Briguglio puts it, “It’s about time we stop talking about projects and start seeing results.”
So, as you walk past the scaffolding on Triq it-Torri, remember, this is not just a construction site. It’s a symbol of a larger issue that needs addressing. And it’s up to us, the voters, to make sure our voices are heard.
