I would like to thank all those who voted for me on 12 March, especially those people who only turned out to vote because my name was on the ballot. Thirteen votes cast in my favour were deemed invalid because the number 1 was written on the “independent candidate” line rather than opposite my name.

When these are added to the 179 valid votes that I registered, one gets 192 votes, a total close to what I averaged in the two previous elections as a PN candidate. In view of the stigma normally attached to incumbent councillors who are shunned by their party, this amounts to a huge vote of confidence in me as a councillor.

It is therefore with great enthusiasm that I approach this term in office. As an independent councillor I can pursue the interests of the community more aggressively than before. I also feel a greater responsibility towards my constituents who unequivocally voted for me rather than for any political party. I intend to be their voice on the council, especially in matters that touch the integrity of Ghajnsielem, a village blessed with natural beauty and steeped in history but appallingly abused and neglected by one administration after another.

Having said this, I fully intend to work hand in hand with my fellow councillors, especially with mayor Francis Cauchi, with whom I have an excellent relationship. My views regarding the direction of our local council are shared by the majority of the councillors and cut across party lines. I do not see any problems of alignment, as long as my colleagues stay true to their claim that they are there to serve the people of Ghajnsielem. I frankly do not see any other point to getting involved in politics other than to be of service to people. So I expect that a lot can be achieved in this term.

It is not my style to engage in self-promotion, but a perusal of the minutes of our meetings of the last six years will reveal an impeccable track record marked with suggestions which eventually came to fruition (eg the public library, the refurbishment of the playing field, the organisation of carnival activities).

I plan to promote the continued embellishment of Ghajnsielem, the prompt response to residents’ requests for service or complaints, the commitment of funds to education, culture and sport and, finally, greater awareness of the implications of our membership in the EU with a view to drawing the maximum benefits from this new status.

Joseph Debono

Independent Councillor

Ghajnsielem local council