Nationalist Party leader Alex Borg has pledged an economic reset, and renewed approach to governance focused on quality of life, economic sustainability and public trust, following the Prime Minister’s announcement of a snap general election.
Addressing a press conference, Borg said the party’s electoral campaign is rooted in widespread public sentiment rather than branding. “We did not choose this simply as a slogan,” he said of the party’s “Nifs Ġdid” slogan, explaining that the phrase reflects what people are expressing “in the streets, in clubs and in bars” — a desire to reset priorities while building on what works.
He argued that Malta needs both continuity and change: continuity in areas of success, and a willingness to address shortcomings and start anew where necessary.
Borg highlighted growing public frustration over traffic congestion, rising living costs and the pace of national development. He questioned whether economic growth is translating into improved quality of life, asking whether workers, young people and pensioners are truly benefiting. “The economy is growing, but is quality growing in the same way?” he said, adding that success should be measured by its impact on families rather than abstract indicators.
Central to the “Nifs Ġdid” vision is a shift towards higher-value economic sectors, including technology, education and innovation, alongside a reduction in overreliance on construction-led growth. Borg warned that Malta “cannot keep growing on volume alone” and must instead focus on creating sustainable, long-term opportunities. He also called for less bureaucracy, better wages and improved work-life balance, with more time for families and stronger community cohesion.
On governance, Borg emphasised the need for “serious leadership” that delivers on its promises and rebuilds trust in institutions. “Power is not a privilege,” he said, “but something given by the people, and we must not disappoint them.” He added that public funds must be used responsibly and transparently, stressing the importance of accountability.
Responding to a question from The Malta Independent regarding voter disengagement Borg acknowledged that around 15% of eligible voters are not participating in elections. He said the party plans on addressing this by demonstrating a “new way of doing politics”, centred on transparency, outreach and inclusion. He explained that younger voices are being brought forward to present a fresher perspective and reconnect with disengaged citizens. Borg added that the party intends to meet people directly, identify areas of agreement and disagreement, and work on those concerns, with the aim of rebuilding trust and showing why voting matters.
During questions from journalists, Borg also confirmed that, should the Nationalist Party win government, Alex Perici Calascione would be appointed Deputy Prime Minister. However, he said no decision has yet been taken on the role of deputy-leader, explaining that the early election has meant internal party processes have not been completed.
Borg further announced that many of the party’s key manifesto proposals will be revealed later on Tuesday night during a mass rally at the party’s Dar Ċentrali headquarters, where supporters are expected to gather as the campaign gains momentum.
Borg concluded by framing “Nifs Ġdid” as a unifying campaign aimed at creating a society where people “work to live, not live to work”, pensioners enjoy dignity and younger generations can pursue their ambitions with confidence. He said the party will continue listening to the public beyond election day, promising a government that remains connected to people’s everyday realities.