Come next Saturday, the political sovereign will be casting its vote to elect a government for the forthcoming five years. It is, therefore, rightly demanded that the electorate basis its choice on the right information and stalk reality of facts.

At inception, it must be appreciated that the Nationalist Party under the distinguished leadership of Dr Lawrence Gonzi governed through sensible policies, bringing in turn economic stability, leading the country to stark prosperity. This was evidenced in the economic growth reaching four per cent, the deficit slashed to 1.6 per cent and the record levels of foreign direct investment. Above all this, Malta is now nearing full employment, with almost 170,000 people working, the highest number in our island’s history. Suffice it to say, 20,000 jobs have been generated in just four years. This inter alia, brought about calm, peace and prosperity.

In the light of the foregoing, it is of paramount importance that nothing will be done to curtail this sustained economic growth, damage our livelihood and/or annihilate joie de vivre Gonzi brought about. I strongly feel that a potential danger lies in voting Labour. Alfred Sant’s track record will readily reveal what one would expect to get.

I have listened to what Alfred Sant and his party have been saying to the electorate and I can conclude that voting Labour would mean an increase in the public deficit, a slashing of foreign direct investment, growing political uncertainty, shaken investor confidence, economic slowdown leading to stagnation, an increase in indirect taxation to pay for the oil used to generate electricity, when the surcharge is halved, increased unemployment, about 15,000 in five years, and a lot more, let alone having our children repeating a year at school for no valid reason at all.

It is more than clear that MLP is the same as it was in 1996-98. Alfred Sant sent Malta spinning into political and financial uncertainty when in government. Political and economic turmoil led to the collapse of his government, unemployment soared, while recession neared its ugly head. Businesses began downsizing, leaving many uncertain about their future. With a cheek, he froze Malta’s EU application and left the country without direction. He was only capable at creating political uncertainty.

On hearing Lawrence Gonzi over and over again I sincerely feel that his past record certifies for a better future. Moreover, there is more in the offing if he is returned to government. One can expect sectors like the ICT and financial services to flourish. The success in recent tourism growth is destined to peak. Besides, the cutting of the upper income tax rate and widening of tax bands would give a clear incentive to people to work harder and boost the economy.

Gonzi means good governance. Gonzi signifies honest leadership. Gonzi epitomises stability. Alfred Sant means curtailing economic growth. But above all a price on peace of mind. So, the only choice is Nationalist. Labour needs more years of repeating classes in the opposition.

Peter Bonello

Mayor St Julian’s

PN Candidate – local council