A future Nationalist government would slash electricity bills by 30%, Alex Borg announced during a party event in Bormla, unveiling what he described as a major upcoming energy proposal aimed at easing the cost of living for Maltese and Gozitan households.
Borg said the plan, developed with a team of experts, will be explained in detail in the coming days.
Speaking to a crowd of supporters, Borg framed the proposal as part of a broader vision to address everyday pressures faced by citizens, arguing that energy costs remain a central concern for households across Malta and Gozo.
He said the Nationalist Party’s approach to energy reform is rooted in long-term planning and expert consultation, hinting that the proposal would be both sustainable and economically viable.
Borg thanked a long list of candidates set to contest the upcoming general election, describing them as a new generation of politicians “full of energy” and ready to serve Malta and Gozo.
He said that on 30 May, these candidates would present themselves to voters with a clear commitment to renewal, adding that the party is positioning itself as a credible alternative capable of delivering a “fresh start which our country needs.”
Borg said the party had already begun rolling out proposals, starting with healthcare, which he described as a top priority.
“What is more important than the health of the Maltese and Gozitan population?” he asked, noting that the initial focus on healthcare would be followed by a series of policies addressing other sectors.
He pledged further measures targeting youth, families, the elderly, and self-employed workers, stressing that “we will not forget anyone.” Borg also criticised the closure of the elderly care home in Bormla, promising that a Nationalist government would not leave vulnerable people without solutions.
Education featured prominently in Borg’s speech, with him referencing a prior announcement of a €1,000 stipend for students pursuing healthcare-related studies, aimed at encouraging more individuals to enter critical sectors such as nursing and medicine. He also proposed a 25% increase in stipends for all other students, describing the measure as an investment in the country’s future workforce.
Borg warned of a growing brain drain, pointing out that many Maltese professionals, including specialists, nurses, and doctors, are choosing to work abroad. He described this trend as a serious challenge and pledged that a Nationalist government would introduce a five-year tax break to incentivise their return.
Borg also touched on labour market reforms, referencing recent remarks by the Prime Minister on the possibility of a four-day work week. Borg noted that he had previously raised the idea months earlier and faced criticism at the time.
Turning to regional development, Borg underscored the importance of Gozo, insisting that the island would no longer be treated as an afterthought under a Nationalist government. He revealed that the party has already prepared 110 proposals specifically for Gozo, covering a wide range of sectors.
He credited a growing team of experts and professionals within the party for helping to shape its policy platform, saying their contributions have injected “energy and credibility” into the PN’s proposals. Borg added that several months of work have gone into developing the policies that will be rolled out in the coming weeks.
Borg criticised the Labour Party, accusing it of blurring the lines between government and party. He pointed to the visibility of campaign billboards and alleged that state resources were being used to maintain political power.
He also criticised the Prime Minister for addressing a party event outside of Castille, contrasting this with his own pledge that, if elected, the Office of the Prime Minister would be accessible to all citizens throughout the year.
Despite acknowledging that the PN may not have the same level of resources as its rival, Borg struck an optimistic tone, telling supporters that the party’s strength lies in its people.
He concluded by reinforcing the central message of his speech – that politics should be centred on citizens and their needs.
“Politics is about you, about the Maltese and the Gozitans,” he said, calling for unity and collective effort ahead of the election. “Alone we cannot do it,” he added, as he rallied supporters to work together.
Also speaking at the rally was outgoing PN MP Ryan Callus.