At last the much-awaited moment, that of electing a new Labour leader, has arrived. This moment is not only important for the Malta Labour Party but also for the country in general because it will shape the future of politics in Malta.

Much is at stake in this election. Maybe many delegates who will vote tomorrow do not even realise this. They will not only elect their new leader but they will also decide if Labour will steer towards becoming a party that can win an election or that of facing political oblivion. The Prime Minister recently said that the Labour Party has to think not only what is good for the party but also what is good for the country. Well, dear Prime Minister, what is best for the country is a new democratic Labour in government as soon as possible.

Who is the best of the five contestants? Who of them can turn a party in shambles into a force to be reckoned with? There is no doubt in my mind that George Abela is the best suited of the lot. George has got what it takes to be a good leader.

He has always been consistent and pro EU. Leadership qualities certainly put him a cut above the rest with his personality, credibility, media-friendly approach and last but not least, charisma.

George also has something which all the others lack; he is seen as a safe pair of hands by Nationalists and floating voters. This quality is of the utmost importance because it may well be the deciding factor in a general election.

The delegates have to keep one thing in mind when voting. To elect Labour’s leader, 900 delegates will be voting, but in five years’ time all Malta will vote for the new prime minister. Don’t decide with your heart but with your mind and your soul. All the surveys said one thing: that the Maltese people think that with George Abela as leader, Labour stand the best chance of being elected to government in five years’ time.

Keep that in mind and make your decision. Time will tell if you made the right choice.

Eric Saliba

Hamrun