Residents of Cottonera, a traditional Labour stronghold, this morning expressed their approval to Prime Minister Joseph Muscat’s call for national unity, as Malta is set to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Independence Day.

Addressing a political dialogue on Sunday, Dr Muscat said that although it is easy for the Labour Party to celebrate Freedom and Republic Day, the whole nation needs to step up to show that Independence Day belonged to the whole nation. The Nationalist Party also welcomed the Prime Minister’s call for unity.

The Malta Independent headed out to the Three Cities to ask the public on whether they agree with Dr Muscat, and whether they would be participating in next weekend’s festivities. Most commented that Independence Day is as much as a national holiday as the rest, be it Freedom Day or Republic Day. Many said the time for political battles is over, and embracing peace and unity is the best way forward. Others praised Dr Muscat for calling for national unity, adding that Malta is now “ taghna lkoll”.

Off camera, however some did comment that Independence Day is purely a PN event.