Labour Deputy Leader Alex Agius Saliba called for unity within the Labour Party as he outlined a roadmap to strengthen the party organisation and prepare for a fifth consecutive general election victory.

Addressing delegates at the party’s General Conference, Agius Saliba described the strong vote of confidence given to the party leadership as a renewed mandate to continue modernising and strengthening Labour. He also described serving as Deputy Leader as the greatest privilege of his political life.

Unity was the dominant theme throughout the address. Agius Saliba reminded delegates that no individual is bigger than the party and urged members to place Labour’s collective interest above personal differences. While disagreements are inevitable, unity and mutual respect, he argued, have always been the movement’s greatest strengths. Internal divisions, he warned, would only weaken the party.

He also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting Prime Minister Robert Abela, describing it as its duty to stand behind the party leader, its members and the party’s wider interests.

Looking ahead, Agius Saliba described Labour’s fourth consecutive electoral mandate as an unprecedented achievement carrying a historic responsibility. The priority over the next five years, he said, is to deliver the party’s electoral manifesto while ensuring Labour remains close to people’s everyday concerns. The Labour Party’s National Headquarters and local party clubs will continue operating as open spaces where people can raise concerns and engage directly with the party.

The speech also set out Labour’s organisational priorities. These include further investment in ONE, expanding the party’s digital communication platforms to better engage younger audiences, strengthening the Labour Youth, Women’s and Veterans’ sections, and ensuring every locality has an active local committee operating from well-equipped premises.

Financial sustainability also featured prominently. Labour will continue consolidating its property portfolio following agreements that secured party properties in Birżebbuġa and Santa Venera, while similar solutions will be pursued in other localities. Investment will also continue in Labour centres across Malta and Gozo, with the rebuilt Gżira Labour Centre serving as a model for future projects.

Further works are planned at the Labour Party’s National Headquarters, including the creation of a modern library and research centre dedicated to preserving the party’s history. The project builds on recent upgrades to the headquarters, including works on the façade, courtyard, fourth floor and the installation of a new air-conditioning system.

Agius Saliba thanked Prime Minister Robert Abela, Head of Communications Norma Saliba, outgoing CEO Leonid McKay, Deputy Party Leader Ian Borg, party officials, staff and volunteers for their contribution. He also expressed gratitude to his parents and daughter for their support throughout his tenure as Deputy Leader.

Closing the address, Agius Saliba called on Labour members to begin working towards a fifth consecutive general election victory. Reaffirming Labour’s socialist identity, he said Labour remains committed to putting Malta first and argued that the party’s continued success is ultimately in the best interests of Malta and Gozo.