Abela’s Last-Minute Plea: ‘Collect Your Vote, Keep Convincing Until the Last Second’

Malta’s Prime Minister, Robert Abela, is leaving no stone unturned in his bid for re-election. As the polls open on Saturday, Abela has been crisscrossing the islands, his voice hoarse from hours of campaigning. “Collect your vote, keep convincing people until the last second,” he urged supporters at a rally in Birkirkara’s Freedom Square on Friday night.

Abela’s Final Push

Abela’s final push is a testament to the tight race that has characterized this election. With polls showing a close contest between his Labour Party and the Nationalist Party led by Bernard Grech, every vote counts. The Prime Minister’s message is clear: turn out to vote, and do so for Labour.

Abela’s campaign has been a whirlwind tour of Malta and Gozo, from the bustling streets of Valletta to the quiet villages of Gozo. He’s been seen at fish markets, schools, and even a popular bakery in Msida, where he chatted with locals over a traditional Maltese ftira.

Issues at the Forefront

Abela has focused his campaign on Labour’s record in government, pointing to economic growth, social reforms, and the party’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He’s also promised to tackle housing affordability, a pressing issue for many Maltese, especially young people.

Grech, on the other hand, has criticized Labour’s handling of the economy and promised to introduce a new social contract if elected. He’s also pledged to tackle corruption and improve the country’s healthcare system.

Voter Apathy and the Youth Vote

Despite the close race, voter apathy is a concern. Some Maltese, disillusioned with politics, may choose not to vote. Abela has been vocal in his appeal to young voters, urging them to make their voices heard. “Don’t let others decide your future,” he told a crowd of young supporters at the University of Malta.

For Abela, the stakes are high. A win would cement his position as the island’s leader, while a loss would be a significant setback for his party. But regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear: Malta’s political scene is changing, and the country’s voters are more engaged than ever.

As Abela’s final rally came to a close, he looked out at the sea of Labour supporters, their red flags waving in the night air. “Tomorrow,” he said, “we write our future together.”