Alternattiva Demokratika chairman Harry Vassallo told a news conference that the election of Michael Bajada, the AD candidate, to the local council of Munxar and Xlendi would defuse the destructive confrontational stances adopted by the two traditional parties to the grave detriment of the locality.

“In contrast to the secrecy surrounding the issue of the Munxar playing field, Michael Bajada will insist that residents be consulted on and informed of local council decision-making processes regarding issues having a direct bearing on the quality of life of the community,” said Dr Vassallo.

“Much greater local council input is warranted in the case of Xlendi in order to enhance and preserve its attractiveness both as a tourist destination and as a place to live. AD undertakes to ensure that the shabbiness blighting Xlendi will be rectified and that the collection of garbage, especially during the summer season, will be reviewed.”

Dr Vassallo said: “Permanent residents in Xlendi are taxpayers too and should not be taken for granted. The relative isolation of Xlendi in conjunction with its busy commercial centre necessitates a fully-functional police station, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”