Early Voting Kicks Off in Malta and Gozo: Here’s What You Need to Know

It’s a quiet Monday morning in Msida, and the sun is barely up. Yet, outside the St. Joseph’s Hall, a small queue has already formed. These aren’t early risers rushing to catch a bus, but voters eager to cast their ballots in Malta’s early voting process, a first in the country’s electoral history.

Why the Change?

Malta’s electoral reform, passed in 2020, introduced early voting to encourage higher turnout and make voting more accessible. The process, which began on Monday, 16th May, and will continue until Friday, 20th May, allows voters to cast their ballots at designated early voting stations across the islands.

Dr. Joe Gerada, the Superintendant of Elections, explained, “Early voting is an opportunity for those who might find it difficult to vote on election day due to work or other commitments. It’s about making the democratic process more inclusive.”

Where and When to Vote Early

Early voting stations are set up in various locations across Malta and Gozo, including Msida, Birkirkara, Paola, and Victoria. They’re open from 9 am to 7 pm daily until Friday. You can find the full list of stations and their locations on the Electoral Commission’s website.

Remember, you can only vote at the designated early voting station for your district. So, check your electoral card or the Electoral Commission’s website to find your district and the corresponding early voting station.

What to Expect on Election Day

If you’re planning to vote on the actual election day, Saturday, 21st May, here’s what you can expect. Polls will be open from 7 am to 10 pm. You’ll need to vote at your designated polling station, which is usually a school or a community hall near your residence.

Don’t forget to bring your electoral card. If you’ve lost it, don’t worry. You can still vote by providing valid identification. You can also vote if you’re in quarantine or isolation, but you’ll need to follow specific procedures. Check the Electoral Commission’s website for details.

After voting, don’t forget to dip your finger in the ink. It’s a small tradition that helps prevent double voting.

So, Malta and Gozo, are you ready to make history? Whether you’re voting early or on election day, your voice matters. Let’s make this election the most inclusive yet.

“Voting is a right, but it’s also a responsibility,” says Dr. Gerada. “It’s our chance to shape our future, so let’s not miss it.”