The person who does not make use of his right to vote, has no right to criticise. He who does not vote has something less than others. He who does not vote throws away the right he has as a citizen to promote the best for himself, his family and his country.

Egoism, ignorance and disrespect make a citizen an individual without decency, indignity and loyalty in every respect. Every right carries an obligation. We should always remember that as loyal citizens we should do our duty and vote.

Abstention does not make us mature and in the end will cause harm to our future. We have not only the right but also the duty to vote and vote with our mind, rather than with our heart. Our country needs each one of us to further our continuity in true democracy and drive progress.

During these last years great progress has been achieved both in our local councils and our direct participation as full members of the European Union.

Our present European parliamentarians made their impact, especially Dr Simon Busuttil and David Casa. Who said that we cannot achieve miracles? They did and they convinced the big partners that our contribution is valid not only for us but also to the whole European Union community.

I am proud to state that I always exercised my right to vote since I was 21 years of age. Now, at the age of 70, I promise I will be doing my duty till the end of my life.

Victor Mario Abela

Sliema