Opposition and Nationalist Party Leader Bernard Grech reaffirmed his part’s commitment to defending life and human dignity during an appearance on NET TV’s current affairs programme Analiżi on Sunday.
The interview focused heavily on the national debate on euthanasia and the ongoing political crisis in the Għargħur Local Council.
“We have always been in favour of life and the dignity of the person,” Grech said, emphasising that while the Government has launched a public consultation on euthanasia, the PN will take a considered approach before declaring an official stance.
Grech stated that the PN has already started internal discussions involving all branches of the Party and is also monitoring what civil society groups and other stakeholders are saying. “This must all be done with respect for everyone,” he noted.
While stopping short of taking a firm position, Grech indicated that the PN remains rooted in its traditional values. “We are not making decisions according to the politics of the moment like others do,” he said. “We act according to what we believe in because we believe in the value of the human being.”
He added that the consultation process will continue in the coming weeks, during which the Party will listen to the views of the public. “Ultimately, the Nationalist Party will decide on a clear position that reflects what the people believe.”
The discussion comes as the Government opens its first formal consultation on euthanasia, inviting the public to engage in debate on an issue that has long remained taboo in Maltese politics. Although no legislative proposal has been tabled, the move marks a significant step in broadening national discourse on end-of-life care and individual rights.
Grech also addressed another pressing issue currently dominating headlines: the political crisis in the Għargħur Local Council. Following a vote of no confidence against the PN-led council, the Opposition Leader insisted that a new local election should be held.
“The situation in the Għargħur Local Council is already critical,” Grech said, accusing the Government of attempting to bypass democratic principles. “The people of Għargħur voted for five years of leadership, and now, the Government is trying to deprive them of that right.”
He described the Government’s actions as a betrayal of democratic values and said the PN will not stay silent. “This is not only an insult to those who voted for the Nationalist Party, but to everyone who believes in democracy,” Grech added.
The Opposition Leader said the Government was “afraid to hold an election in Għargħur” because it fears losing. He urged residents and supporters to attend a protest scheduled for Wednesday at 6:30 pm in front of the PN club in Għargħur, describing it as a demonstration not just of political frustration, but of democratic principle.
“This is your opportunity to show solidarity with the councillors who respected the people’s will,” he said, referring to the recent developments that led to the council’s collapse.
Grech framed the local issue within a broader national concern, arguing that the current administration seeks to “control everything” and believes that “the end justifies the means.” He concluded that the Government must respect the outcome of the last election and let the people decide again through a new vote.
While the interview mainly focused on ethical and democratic concerns, Grech also commented on the ongoing cost of living crisis, describing it as both an economic and social emergency. He said the PN had already proposed tax relief measures on part-time and overtime work, as well as support for importers and exporters.
“Our proposal aims to give workers, families and employers a breather, and at the same time strengthen the economy,” he said.