Malta’s 15th Parliament Sworn In: A New Chapter Begins

MPs Take Oath in Historic Ceremony at Palace

Malta’s 15th parliament was sworn in today, marking the beginning of a new political chapter for the island nation. The ceremony, held at the historic Grandmaster’s Palace in Valletta, saw 67 members of parliament (MPs) take their oath of office in a solemn yet hopeful atmosphere.

New Faces and Familiar Names

The new parliament is a blend of seasoned politicians and fresh faces, with several women making history as first-time MPs. Among them is Alexia Debono, the youngest MP ever elected at 23, who will represent the 12th district. She joins a parliament that now boasts a record 22 female MPs, a significant increase from the previous parliament.

Familiar names also returned to the political stage, including former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, who was re-elected as MP for Ħamrun. Muscat, who resigned in January following months of protests calling for his resignation over his involvement in the Daphne Caruana Galizia murder case, will now sit on the opposition benches.

: Challenges and Opportunities

The new parliament faces a daunting task, with a long list of challenges ahead. Topping the agenda is the ongoing inquiry into the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, which has rocked Malta’s political scene. The new government, led by Prime Minister Robert Abela, has pledged to restore trust in institutions and tackle corruption.

Other pressing issues include the economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, housing shortages, and the ongoing debate over Malta’s controversial citizenship-by-investment scheme. The new parliament will also have to navigate Brexit-related challenges, as Malta seeks to protect its economic interests with the UK, its largest trading partner.

As the new parliament gets down to business, one thing is clear: the eyes of the nation are on these 67 MPs, hoping they can deliver the change and progress that Malta so desperately needs.