The GonziPN government, rather than managing our fortunes, is once again in a crisis, whereas Labour, on the other hand, is excited about our nation’s prospects.

The very nature of the government’s current crisis is the result of its bleak record. GonziPN is piloted by an intransigent handful of loyalists who, instead of wearing their humble hats, sport a culture of arrogance that is underpinned by costly incompetence. The very mention of ‘GonziPN’ today is considered as a jibe by the very same people who coined and promoted it.

This is the extent to which the GonziPN administration has failed us.

It is sad to see how Gonzi’s intransigent handful now try to convince us that we have a steady economy even when international ratings and a negative outlook places us in the bottom four of all EU member states. This rating is unfortunately underpinned by the many financial and administrative difficulties faced by so many families and businesses – from Marsaxlokk to Mellieha, from Sliema to Zurrieq. The Gonzi government is fatigued and unable to provide diligent governance.

It is especially sad to see how the small faction running GonziPN acts as if it is actually indispensable to Malta. This unacceptable attitude continues despite its many failures and the thumbs-down the Gonzi administration continues to receive, not least from so many within the Nationalist Party itself.

Labour’s voice in bringing GonziPN’s government to task was never a solitary one. Members of Gonzi’s own parliamentary line-up and beyond have themselves levelled serious accusations at the government’s performance in all key areas.

In the meantime, Labour has attracted – and continues to attract to its fold – a veritable concentration of newcomers replete with the enthusiasm of youth and the wisdom of experience.

It is within this context that Labour commits itself to be honest and open with the people. Over the past four years we have seen pre-electoral promises broken – such as the promise of thousands of jobs at Smart City, job security in various sectors, promises of an immediate reduction in tax rates and many more. It is clear that the GonziPN machine is able to churn out cheap electoral gimmicks yet is unable to deliver. The GonziPN strategists have no qualms about hanging on to power at all costs.

It is for these reasons that, if entrusted to do so by the electorate, Labour is today able to assemble a Cabinet of undoubted quality, a Cabinet that will provide exciting hope in contrast to a failed GonziPN trademark. Labour is committed to a modernised form of government that will stimulate our economic potential and improve our quality of life.

A Labour government will reinstate stability. Our nation, our economy and Maltese families are paying a high price for the political instability that is the result of a failed GonziPN government.

Labour will ensure that public funds will be administered in a better manner. The government will be on the side of the people in all sectors and not an unwanted burden that stultifies the initiatives that create jobs and prosperous opportunities.

Labour will be committed to maximising our opportunities within the European Union in key sectors, ranging from the educational sector to the health sector. Above all, Labour will be driven by an unbending commitment to an open and fair society in the interests of every individual, family and community.

Given the people’s trust to govern, Labour will do everything it can to ensure that the government acts in the best interests of Maltese and Gozitan families. We will give the country a new direction and ensure that in every decision that is taken, you will matter most.

Dr Zrinzo Azzopardi is president of the Labour Party