As time passes, more people seem to feel that they do not belong to any political party. This is not a new phenomenon. In most modern countries the percentage of the population that consider themselves politically neutral or even apathetic is continually growing. More and more people are beginning to feel uncomfortable when they are categorised or labelled. More people wish to be free of any political ties in order to be able to look at issues objectively and take their decisions reasonably rather than follow family traditions. Above all, a new generation, which wants politicians to think for themselves rather than simply tell them what to think, has arrived. I truly enjoy meeting these people, in whose hands the future of our country lies - and they deserve our respect. It is in the interest of every politician and believer in democracy to see that there are more such independent thinkers. It is such people that guarantee reflection and deliberation and who drive us politicians to convince them with facts and solid arguments – nothing more and nothing less. Above all, I believe that it is this sector of the population which will once again entrust the running of this country to the party that has changed Malta - a party full of energy and ready for the challenges to come.

I am convinced that everyone understands that these are exciting times for us. It is a time of great opportunity in which our country is making the improvements we have all hoped for. Challenges, which up to a few years ago seemed unreachable, have now already become a reality. While some were worried that we would be carried away by the tide, we rode the waves and moved forward. And while we have gained the respect of the world, we are also enjoying a better standard of living than we have ever had. These times require an energetic leadership that looks at obstacles as challenges and not problems. Rather than fear and doubt, a strong leadership must realise the potential of its people and aim high in order to move forward with enthusiasm. This became especially clear when, a few months ago, I was in Portugal receiving the Best Emerging Rural Destinations Award as Mayor of Nadur. Ten destinations in Europe were given the award and our small town of Nadur was one of them. More than ever, I was convinced that our potential is great.

Our greatest potential is us – the people of Malta and Gozo – men and women in the work force and young people full of new ideas and enthusiasm. And when that enthusiasm is shared with others, it multiplies. That was why the Nadur Local Council opened its doors to everyone who had something to offer - anyone who had an idea or wanted to help, or simply wanted to be a part of something. We worked together and we aimed high – perhaps higher than we ever thought we could reach. But within a few years we all saw a great change take place. After taking care of the necessities – resurfacing streets, organising traffic systems and keeping the town clean and organised, we turned to the hidden potential within our town. We planted trees in abandoned fields; we made it possible for tourists to see our valleys full of fruit trees - the real wonders of Gozo off the beaten track; we restored fortifications; we sought out hidden talents and encouraged them through art exhibitions and by promoting local talents in our activities; we made our uniqueness known throughout Malta and beyond; we have made the Nadur carnival the biggest winter event in Gozo; we have organised international conferences, including that of the European Federation of Carnival Cities – which has made our own carnival famous throughout Europe; we have transformed derelict areas into playing fields, public gardens and belvederes so everyone can enjoy our wonderful views; we have created other new annual events that attract thousands of visitors including the wine festival and Christmas Market; we have helped our students – young and old – by investing in books, education, varied courses and sports; we have covered local football grounds with artificial turf to attract more children and youth to sport; we cleaned up the beaches and increased the facilities for those who frequent them; we have built relationships with other European localities through twinnings and associations and have taken every opportunity such exchanges offer; above all, we have taken initiatives which have enabled our council to acquire more from the European Union for the benefit of all our residents. We have utilised the potential we were presented with and with the help of serious planning and great participation on the part of the residents, we have completed one project after another. This is all thanks to the enthusiasm we have transferred to the residents so that they too feel they are a part of the change and progress. The list of projects yet to be carried out is long and ambitious, but as long as there is enthusiasm and a will to succeed, I am sure that the next local council will continue the change.

I believe that what has been accomplished in Nadur can happen throughout Gozo so that our island will become a model of successful governing for other regions in Europe.

It is an important time for Gozo because while we wish to continue to progress, we cannot risk losing that which makes us unique. It is a delicate balance between that which makes our island extraordinary and the progress we wish to see happen. It is a balance that must not only be kept, but is the secret to success of our island.

I believe that the more people reflect on the importance of these times for the future of Gozo, the clearer their choice will be.

Dr Said has been mayor of Nadur since 1999 and is a Nationalist Party candidate for the 13th district.