Maltese prime minister Robert Abela called an early general election for May 30th, as his Labour Party seeks a fourth consecutive term in office.
In a televised address, Abela said the country needed a renewed mandate to address current challenges, particularly concerns over rising energy costs linked to tensions in the Middle East, stating
Our country needs an elected government with a new mandate focused solely on the country’s needs.
He added that his administration would act as a “shield” for citizens and keep energy prices stable.
The 48-year-old PM won the 2022 election but was not due to face voters until 2027. His decision to call an early poll sets the stage for a closely watched campaign in the European Union’s smallest member state.
Abela will face Alex Borg, leader of the Nationalist Party, who said his party was ready to contest the election and that
This isn’t a campaign against someone, this is a campaign for our country.
Borg pledged to focus on opportunities for families, workers and young people.
Labour has governed Malta since 2013. A fourth straight term for the same party would be unprecedented in the country.
