It’s election season in Malta, and the streets of District 7 are buzzing with a familiar energy. Posters plastered on walls, candidates’ faces peering from lamp posts, and the occasional honk of a campaign car – it’s a spectacle that’s as much a part of Maltese life as the traditional ‘festa’. But who are these candidates, and what do they stand for? Let’s meet the contenders vying for your vote in District 7.

We start in the heart of Birkirkara, where incumbent MP and PN candidate, Dr. Claudio Grech, has his roots. A local boy made good, Grech is a familiar face in these parts. He’s been the MP for District 7 since 2013, and before that, he served as a local councillor. Grech is a lawyer by profession, and his campaign this time around is focused on jobs, education, and the environment. He’s promising to create more jobs in the district, improve educational facilities, and make Birkirkara greener.

But Grech isn’t the only one from Birkirkara in the race. Independent candidate, Dr. Mario Mallia, is also vying for the seat. A former PN candidate, Mallia is now running on a platform of change and accountability. He’s critical of both the PN and PL, promising to be a voice for the people, not the parties.

In Msida, PL candidate and incumbent MP, Dr. Owen Bonnici, is seeking re-election. A lawyer and academic, Bonnici has been the MP for District 7 since 2013. He’s promising to continue his work on improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the quality of life in the district.

But Bonnici isn’t the only one from Msida in the race. Independent candidate, Dr. Ivan Falzon, is also vying for the seat. A former PL candidate, Falzon is now running on a platform of change and transparency. He’s critical of both the PN and PL, promising to be a voice for the people, not the parties.

In Gżira, PN candidate and former MP, Dr. Mario de Marco, is seeking a comeback. A lawyer and academic, de Marco was the MP for District 7 from 2008 to 2013. He’s promising to bring his experience and expertise to the table, focusing on issues like traffic congestion, affordable housing, and the environment.

But de Marco isn’t the only one from Gżira in the race. Independent candidate, Dr. Godfrey Farrugia, is also vying for the seat. A former PL candidate, Farrugia is now running on a platform of change and sustainability. He’s promising to focus on issues like affordable housing, traffic congestion, and the environment.

As the campaign season heats up, one thing is clear – the people of District 7 have a choice. Whether it’s experience and continuity they’re looking for, or change and accountability, there’s a candidate out there for everyone. So, get out there, meet your candidates, ask your questions, and most importantly, make your voice heard. After all, democracy is a participatory sport, and in District 7, it’s game on.