‘The spirit of Democracy is not a mechanical thing to be adjusted by abolition of forms. It requires change of heart.’ – Mahatma Ghandi

In today’s world, the role of good governance in achieving social and economic development is taking centre stage. The Labour Government is committed to reforming public management – and has been doing so for the last seven years. Budget deficits, the country’s competitiveness vis-a-vis globalisation, innovative social services and improvements in the delivery of such services are being tackled with considerable success. There is no denying that the quality of life of the people has improved and that the welfare of communities and individuals tops the national agenda.

Our young democracy

As a relatively young democracy, the rule of law is strong and thriving in our country notwithstanding the concerted efforts of those who depict this country’s state of affairs otherwise. We embrace the theory of separation of powers: the three organs of the state are separate and independent from each another. The Legislative branch makes laws, the Executive branch applies the laws and the Judiciary adjudicates the laws to specific cases and to settles all disputes.  Power is divided between the three traditional branches with limits and controls. These checks and balances ensure that no one person or section of government has absolute control over decisions, define assigned duties and ensure that tasks are completed through mutual cooperation between the executive and the legislative branches.

The separation of powers constitutes one of the most important principles of our liberal democracy and the rule of law. The modern concept of democracy and good governance go hand-in-hand: they are fundamental in order to achieve sustainable development. Parliament’s role in engaging in the development and implementation of laws, policies and practices is to ensure the promotion of democracy and good governance.

My new role

In the new role assigned to me as Chairperson of the Consideration of Bills Committee it will be our competence to scrutinise draft bills for Parliament’s consideration and eventual approval. As per procedure, each bill has to pass through various stages, during which amendments can be discussed and included or excluded – as the case may be.

This exercise reflects Parliament’s priorities in respect of what the people expect from their representatives. Each legislature has its own targets and priorities, mainly based on the elected Government’s manifesto. This dynamic and evolving process is proof that our democratic credentials are evolving and ongoing.

Whilst public management reforms are important for good governance, there is room for improvement in other sectors. The events of the last few months have strengthened the Government’s resolve to tackle issues that will most certainly invigorate good governance and ensure that the rule of law remains dynamic and at pace with contemporary concepts – a global issue that concerns the world’s liberal democracies.

The rule of law necessitates that decisions taken by the government are founded in law, and that private individuals and enterprises are protected from arbitrary decisions; reliability and predictability are key. This government is therefore striving to make credible commitments to ensure that the private sector can put its mind at rest that decisions, policies and laws will not be ultimately reversed due to political uncertainty. In the long term, Labour’s vision is to enhance stability through public consultation and fair and open competition.

Political and public powers

Dr Abela, as the new Prime Minister, has made it clear that the country will preserve continuity by building on the successes of recent years and will make the necessary changes and improvements for the common good, leaving no doubt regarding our continued resolve.

The powers of politicians and public servants are vast and involve the implementation of laws and regulations, the control of resources and the management of large state agencies. In democratic societies, accountability, as part of the rule of law, requires clarity about who is accountable to whom and for what, and that every individual and organisation that is part of the government is held accountable for their decisions and performance. We are committed to strengthening accountability and transparency and will continue to involve civil society in the consultation of policies and decision-making processes.

The active and responsible involvement of civil society in the development of a modern democracy is a basic value embraced by Labour. The notion of civil society as a fourth pillar is  taking hold on the world stage and is considered to be an essential part of democracy and good governance.

Good intentions

The basic characteristics of various forms of citizen’s association are independence, free will, pluralism and – above all – good and constructive intensions. This government is committed to raising awareness of the importance of their role in society and to support people and organisations in making social changes. National responsibility expects them to contribute towards transparent and responsible management, social inclusion and social justice. It is Labour’s belief that – through dialogue, decision-making and public policies at a national level – the country will further strengthen its democratic credentials.

The media is also an important component in a democratic country. The advent of modern technology has a major role in giving a voice to the voiceless. This makes a society enhance its democratic credentials and ensures that more people participate in social and political objectives that are just and fair. It also plays a role in helping the legislature, executive and judiciary to reach informed decisions and policies that will help create a balanced and progressive environment in which all citizens can live in tranquillity.

Truth and credibility

As a tool for educating voters, however, it is important that the media give facts, disseminate real news and expose balanced opinions on how the government is run and managed. A well-informed society should be able to make rational choices to ensure that the government runs the country in the way that the people want and deserve.

Following the events of the past few months, it is obvious that much needs to be done by all of us involved to give balanced and factual information. Our democracy and rule of law are being unjustly attacked and discredited beyond our shores, and a change of heart is badly needed. The unfair and misinformed criticism of our democratic processes will take years to rectify – but rectified they will be!

Our democracy and the rule of law are, indeed, thriving and healthy. Labour’s commitment to build on our collective successes and to strengthen our democracy will certainly continue in the years to come. The strong mandate given to us by an overwhelming majority is proof that the ordinary women and men who voted for us in the last election have understood our vision for a more fair and equitable society. They trust us with the fulfilment of this vision, knowing full well that we are the only cohesive and consistent party in Malta and Gozo that is willing and capable when it comes to making the necessary bold changes for the benefit of everyone. Steps taken by Dr Robert Abela in his first few weeks in office are clear proof of our resolve, and the numbers published last week continue to demonstrate that people trust this Government because Labour does work.