As election day approaches, many citizens in Malta and Gozo increasingly view the status quo as the safest and most viable political option currently available. The Maltese and Gozitan electorate will ultimately choose between the Labour Party, which has governed responsibly for the past 13 years, and the Nationalist Party, which is still seeking to establish itself as a fair opposition force.

Governing a nation state, particularly during periods of crisis and uncertainty is considerably more difficult than sitting idle on the opposition benches. Under three Nationalist leaders from Adrian Delia, Bernard Grech and Alex Borg the Nationalist party still has to address its party’s finances and internal structures.

For those who remain uncertain about how a potential Nationalist government could undermine the progress achieved thus far, one may look towards the turbulent period experienced by the opposition party during the last 13 years. Aren’t the Nationalist still the Nationalist of the Gonzi years?

Malta’s social fabric, spread across different demographic sectors, understands clearly what is at stake. It is increasingly evident that the political stakes are high should a fragmented Nationalist Party, which presently includes previous prime ministerial hopefuls Bernard Grech and Adrian Delia within the “Nifs Ġdid” movement, return to government.

Potentially if ever the Nationalist are elected to government who between Adrian Delia and Bernard Grech will be given the post of deputy Prime Minister?

From youths to pensioners, employers and employees, parents and single individuals alike, many appear to favour stability over highly ambitious promises. Consequently, as uncertainties across international markets and global value chains persist, it is becoming increasingly evident that the Labour government is perceived as providing greater economic security, delivering more consistently, and administering the country more effectively under the present circumstances.

The status quo provides a degree of predictability that is particularly valuable for attracting foreign direct investment and maintaining international credibility. At a time when uncertainty across international markets and value chains remains a defining reality, stability and continuity become important indicators of what may be required in the years ahead.

The past 13 years have demonstrated the dynamism and energy of successive Labour governments in transforming challenges into opportunities. This is a huge achievement, particularly within the context of a Nationalist Party that continues to struggle to define its role effectively from the opposition benches.

Today’s lifestyle and standard of living were shaped, in part, by the sacrifices and contributions of older generations. Thanks to these generations, Malta and Gozo have become what they are today. It is now the responsibility of younger generations, under a Labour government, to implement the necessary adjustments and reforms without risking the progress and stability that previous generations worked hard to build through considerable sacrifice.