“Continuity does not rule out fresh approaches to fresh situations.” 

Dean Rusk (American politician 1909-1994)

The Year 2020 will be a year of renewed resolve, new opportunities and continuity.  The political upheaval of the past two months has meant that within a week Prime Minister Joseph Muscat will be stepping down and making way for a new leader. Irrespective of what has transpired in recent weeks, his legacy of socio-economic successes will continue to be key to the furtherance of the common good in years to come and a turning point on many levels in our country’s socio-political progress.

Being objective

Progress in all its forms requires objectivity: we have to be objective for the good of our country. By being objective, we will ensure that we see the wood for the trees, build upon the good and progress further in our well-being as one united nation. 

Certain individuals are, however, doing their utmost to confuse and thwart reality. Instead of focusing on the common good and finding ways to build upon the country’s successes, personal prejudices, preferences or predilections are taking centre stage. It is very evident that these tactics have one sole aim – to destabilise the country for partisan and personal gain, which is the antithesis of doing politics genuinely.

This government’s loyalty is towards the mandate given to it by the thousands of people who believe in Labour’s capabilities. As a government, we must keep moving forward: regression is not an option. Continuity and sustainability are key factors for continued success. It is our duty to safeguard the achievements of the last few years. Gambling the future of the country for personal or partisan gain is reprehensible: we must unite as a society to create a sustainable and secure living for future generations.

Future accomplishments

Perfection is a lofty concept that is coveted by each and every one of us. It is, however, not attainable. There is an old saying, however, that says ‘If we chase perfection we can catch excellence’ (Vince Lombardi). While it is true that success is satisfying, it is the trials and challenges that lift us up and spur us on with greater vigour towards the attainment of future accomplishments.

This is how this government will be looking to the future. Past mistakes and setbacks will be analysed objectively. Remedial solutions will be found and implemented and anomalies and lacunae will be ironed out as diligently and effectively as possible through the proper channels and as dictated by the Rule of Law.

Wide consultation across the board has proved to be effective and equitable, and will remain the cornerstone of all future decisions made in the interests of the country.

New leadership

We are now at a time where a new Prime Minister and Labour leader will be elected to run the country. The choice made by the General Congress will reflect the spirit of love for one’s country for which the Labour Party is renowned. Gozo and Malta come first and foremost. This means that the continued implementation of the electoral manifesto that gave this Government the mandate to serve for the next two-and-a-half years will carry on through the new leader.

Electing a new leader is, in itself, a form of wide consultation. The thousands of members eligible to vote come from all walks of life. There is no denying that, over the last 10 years, the Party has grown to include a vast array of workers, business people, professionals and academics of high calibre whose decision on the new leader will reflect the consensus of the majority across society. Through its new Prime Minister, the mandate given to this government will continue to prove that Labour’s solid principles and democratic credentials are dynamic, rich, innovative and progressive. They are all aimed at furthering the growth and sustainability of the country with the common good of each and every citizen at heart.

Responsibility

Consistency, hard work and renewal are essential for continued success.  Tough times need brave people to take the lead. Throughout its hundred-year history, Labour chose leaders that were the right people at the right time. None of the nation’s political, social and economical reforms would have materialised, were it not for our past leaders. Time and again – for long decades – they have stood up to all national challenges and led us as a united front, always putting the country first and foremost.

The courage and love for the country’s well-being shown by my colleagues Chris Fearne and Robert Abela by contesting for the leadership is indeed commendable. The weight of responsibilities taken on by the new leader will certainly be heavy and challenging, but both contenders have the maturity and capabilities necessary to lead the nation in the years to come, and a readiness to adapt established values to new situations.

As Gozitans, we are proud of both Chris and Robert. They both believe in the potential and resilience of our island. As Minister for Gozo, this gives give me the continued courage and the necessary drive to implement this government’s ambitious plan to further Gozo’s socio-economic successes throughout 2020 and beyond.

Justyne Caruana is the Minister for Gozo