The Labour Party has now been in Government for eleven years.  Our vision for Malta has been an undisputable success as manifested in several outstanding victories obtained throughout the years. 

The majority obtained in the MEP and local council elections in June would have been satisfactory in other times, yet pales in comparison with our previous success.  It is quite natural that a winning formula devised more than a decade ago requires some fine tuning.  The electorate becomes jaded of having more of the same, even in times of economic success. Our aspirations evolve over time and better economic security allows us to focus on more intrinsic desires, especially our quality of life and self-actualisation.

It is in this specific context that I felt the need to put my hat in the ring to serve as the PL’s Deputy Leader for Party Affairs besides my role as an MEP.  My experience in the European Parliament has led me to struggles against economic giants and vested interests. Negotiations to adopt legislation at a European level involve merging myriad different interests and aspirations from countries at different stages of socio-economic development. Similarly, embracing divergent viewpoints and aspirations within the Labour family is the key to our electoral success in the coming years. 

Our society is becoming increasingly less homogeneous, and the one-size-fits-all vision that was adequate until a few years ago is becoming increasingly irrelevant.  My role as an MEP thrusts me to meet with people and interest groups from across our islands, where I note distinct patterns of thought in specific regions which might not be perceptible for an MP focusing on a specific electoral district.  I believe in the need for more meaningful consultation with local councils in developments and decisions which would have an outsized impact on local communities. 

Empowering citizens to take decisions on subjects which matter most to them is one way to achieve consensus amongst a varied electorate.  Another key element to maintain cohesion amongst a diverse electorate is to always stick to one’s core values.  Integrity, honesty, and social cohesion are three values we can easily agree with and must become increasingly more prominent in our decision-making processes. 

Another task in my role as Deputy Leader for Party Affairs is to ensure that the Labour Party is in fit shape to fight the next election.  I use the word ‘fight’ as we must definitely not take it for granted that Labour will win, despite the evident shortcomings within the PN camp.  Victory may only be secured through hard work and dedication, and I expect to be held to account in serving as a role model for others in this regard.  Our work is required constantly throughout the legislature to ensure that the concerns of the electorate are received and addressed in a timely fashion.  The assumption that a few house visits and phone calls in the run up to the election would do the trick is not just morally wrong but also no longer relevant.

Maintaining a vibrant party and campaigning for an election requires an army of volunteers.  Many passionate individuals are willing to dedicate their time and efforts if they can feel that their opinions are heard and that their actions are relevant and leave a positive impact.  Our branches in each locality are great places where locals can meet to exchange ideas and opinions and serve as a rich source for the recruitment of volunteers.  I shall prioritise support to our branches and ensure we have the right mechanisms in place to receive the opinions and frustrations portrayed within these circles.  We must not shy away from criticising our own Government when our rank and file indicate that it is going astray. 

The changes required to embrace a more varied electorate will undoubtedly worry our veterans who feel that their years of hard work will be pushed aside to accommodate new recruits.  Party loyalty is indeed an increasingly valued and scarce quality and those who have been with us through thick and thin will always form the backbone of our party structures within which new people are embraced and helped to mould within our culture.  These cherished supporters who now feel threatened should rest assured that, under my helm as Deputy Leader for Party Affairs we will never abandon the key tenet for which the Labour Party was founded – to secure a better life for our working class, our families and vulnerable members of society.

Alex Agius Saliba is running for PL Deputy Leader for Party Affairs.