Candidate Spends Campaign Funds on Public Defibrillator
In an unusual twist to Malta’s political scene, a local candidate has chosen to invest campaign funds not in the usual flyers and posters, but in something far more tangible and life-saving – a public defibrillator.
A Defibrillator, Not Flyers: A Candidate’s Unconventional Campaign
Meet Joseph Muscat, not to be confused with the former Prime Minister, but a man with a similarly strong conviction. He’s a candidate for the local council in Msida, a bustling town in the heart of Malta. Instead of the typical campaign paraphernalia, Muscat has spent €1,500 of his campaign budget on a defibrillator, which he plans to install in a public place for anyone in need.
“I wanted to do something that would make a real difference to the community,” Muscat told Hot Malta. “I thought, what’s the point of putting up posters that will just end up littering the streets? I wanted to leave a lasting legacy, something that could save lives.”
The Power of a Defibrillator
A defibrillator can mean the difference between life and death for someone suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. According to the Maltese Heart Foundation, over 1,000 people die from cardiovascular diseases each year in Malta. Having more public defibrillators could significantly improve these statistics.
“Every minute without CPR or defibrillation reduces the chance of survival by 10%. That’s why having a defibrillator in a public place can be crucial,” explains Dr. Joseph Cuschieri, a cardiologist at Mater Dei Hospital.
Community Response: A Breath of Fresh Air
The community has welcomed Muscat’s initiative with open arms. “It’s refreshing to see a candidate who’s thinking about the community’s well-being, not just about getting votes,” says Maria Attard, a long-time Msida resident.
Muscat’s move has also sparked a conversation about what more can be done to improve public health and safety in Malta. “Maybe other candidates will follow suit and think about what they can do to really make a difference,” Muscat hopes.
As for the location of the defibrillator, Muscat is considering the busy Msida promenade, a stone’s throw from the iconic Msida Bastion. “It’s a place where people gather, so it makes sense to have it there,” he says.
