Every year, in the run-up to the local council elections, I always tend to look back in order to analyse what Nationalist councillors carried out in the previous three years. This allows me to see what we did right as well as focus on the areas to improve, including the introduction of new policies as well as the further establishing of a sense of community.
I have been mayor of my locality since 1994 and therefore, I remember how my locality used to be, and I can compare it with how it is now… and the difference is there for all to see: better infrastructure and new community services, and most of all, a stronger sense of belonging to the community.
This has occurred in the absolute majority of those localities led by a PN majority. When one considers the work carried out in Sliema, Naxxar, San Gwann, Birkirkara, Mgarr, Gharb, Lija, Victoria, Mdina, Msida and Pietà, one does not need any convincing.
Our track record is clear. Since the introduction of local councils 13 years ago, we have shown in real terms that our mission was that of putting the principle of decentralisation into practice. No other political party or group in Malta can boast such credentials.
Residents in all the PN-led localities have been enjoying a better community life because the councillors responsible for the local administration carried out policies based on the human person. The number of health, educational, social and numerous other initiatives are evidence that we were always guided by how we can improve the lives of our residents.
In contrast, although the MLP forces across a message that its track record is impeccable, the facts point to a different picture. Notwithstanding the high grades that they received from MLP leader Alfred Sant, MLP-led local councils are beleaguered by internal feuds, central control of all initiatives, over-spending, and most of all, partisan interference.
I might be accused that I am just rehashing old PN political propaganda. Due to the position I hold within the Nationalist Party, I would be not surprised with such a charge and I understand this. But ask the residents of Zebbug, Rabat, Sannat, Paola, Fgura etc…
As for Alternattiva Demokratika, their idea that environmental politics is their exclusive field of action is as erratic as it is ludicrous. The quixotic crusade which they embark upon on each and every project proposed for our country gives us a clear notion of how the status quo for them is more important than sustainable development. I am positive that they will retort to this part of my article stating that I am in favour of some ecologically disastrous project. My opinion on particular development projects is based on facts and not on fiction.
In conclusion, I have to reiterate that our track record in local government is sound and that the electorate is safe to feel that a vote to the PN candidates is a vote based on experience and values. Furthermore, by voting for a PN candidate you will vote for what those candidates can offer.
Since the elections are to take place on Saturday, one still has time to seriously consider what the Nationalist Party has to offer. That is all we ask.
Dr Mifsud is mayor of Pietà and president of the PN College of Councillors