Last year's European Parliament and Local Council elections were a turning point for the PN, marking a significant shift in Malta's political landscape. The party made notable gains, narrowing the gap with the PL and signalling a potential resurgence after years in opposition.

In the European Parliament elections, the PN achieved a remarkable milestone. Roberta Metsola, the President of the European Parliament, secured 87,473 first-preference votes, the highest ever recorded in Malta's MEP elections. This marked a significant swing, indicating a growing confidence in the PN's direction under Bernard Grech's leadership. The PN increased its vote count by over 11,000 compared to 2019, reducing Labour's lead from 42,000 to just 8,454 votes.

The PN's momentum extended to the local council elections, where the party gained control of eight new councils, including key localities such as Mosta, St Paul's Bay, San Ġwann, Msida, and Siġġiewi, Birkirkara, and Mellieħa. This brought its total to 24 councils. The PN also gained seats in hardcore Labour localities such as Dingli, Santa Lucija, Qrendi, Zurrieq, and Xewkija. The vote gap between the PN and PL narrowed from 47,000 in 2019 to just over 20,000 in 2024, reflecting a significant shift in public sentiment.

The Labour Party's once-commanding lead has significantly diminished. In the European Parliament elections, Labour's vote share fell below 50% for the first time since 2004, with a loss of 24,000 votes compared to 2019. Similarly, in the local council elections, Labour lost nine councils and saw its vote count decrease by 16,000. These results indicate growing public dissatisfaction with Labour's governance and a desire for change.

As we stand a year and a half before a general election, the PN has the potential to make more significant gains and win the election. The PL is no longer invincible, and the factions within the party between Joseph Muscat and Robert have irreparably damaged both the PL and the country.

The 2024 elections have reinvigorated the PN, providing a platform to build upon for future success. To capitalise on this momentum, the PN should focus on engaging disenchanted voters. They should reach out to many voters who previously supported Labour or abstained from voting, as these voters are seeking alternatives. The PN must present clear, compelling policies that address their concerns and aspirations.

Furthermore, the PN should continue strengthening its local presence by building on gains in local councils. They should also engage with communities by knocking on doors and being present at every possible public event, demonstrating effective governance and responsiveness to local issues.

Additionally, the PN should continue articulating a Vision for Malta by presenting a forward-looking agenda that addresses key challenges such as economic development, environmental sustainability, and social cohesion. The PN should also promote Transparency and Accountability by emphasising good governance and ethical leadership, distinguishing itself from the controversies that have plagued the Labour Party.

The 2024 elections have set the stage for a more competitive political environment in Malta. With strategic planning and continued engagement, the PN has the opportunity to position itself as the leading force for positive change in the country.

Jean Paul Barbara is PN Minority Leader at Dingli Local Council and Vice President of MŻPN