The Malta Independent 12 August 2026, Wednesday
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Abela urges first-time Labour voters to be ‘proud’ of their choice

Semira Abbas Shalan Tuesday, 26 May 2026, 20:54 Last update: about 4 months ago

Prime Minister Robert Abela appealed to first-time Labour voters to be "proud" of believing in the party's "Int Malta" project, as he told supporters in Żurrieq that Labour remained the only movement capable of turning people's aspirations into reality.

On Tuesday evening, Abela addressed supporters in the fifth district, and urged undecided voters to judge which party had shown "competence, skill and credibility" during the election campaign, as he appealed for another Labour victory on Saturday.

Abela said he was proud that the Labour movement had shown throughout the campaign "what this movement believes in," describing it as a movement built around opportunity, aspirations and the potential of all people.

"We showed we are the movement of everyone, of workers, of those starting out in life, of those who have a business and aspirations to move forward, and we make your dreams a reality," Abela said.

He described Labour as a movement born from the dreams of people who suffered prejudice and hardship because they worked for "the small and vulnerable," adding that they wanted their children to have the same opportunities as everyone else.

"You are the heart of this movement," Abela told supporters, thanking them from the heart.

Abela said Labour had become "a wave of change" aimed at allowing everyone to succeed and maximise their potential, arguing that Malta had grown economically to levels once only dreamed of.

Abela said that Labour had worked so that "no one is left behind," while helping break down "the thick walls of prejudice."

"We managed to break them," he said.

Abela also spoke of the importance of unity, saying Malta could continue moving forward only if it remained united.

He referred to the Malta Vision 2050 strategy, saying the government had brought together workers, professionals, stakeholders and social partners to shape a long-term national vision for the country.

"Team Malta" was a recurring theme throughout the speech, with Abela saying anyone willing to contribute to the country should be considered part of the national team regardless of political beliefs.

He pointed to Labour's handling of crises, including the pandemic and subsequent international challenges, saying that Malta had emerged "stronger every time."

The Prime Minister said Labour's electoral manifesto "Int Malta" had been written around people's experiences, aspirations and difficulties, insisting every measure was designed to make life "easier, better and stronger" from birth until old age.

"Every measure is thought out for your needs," Abela said, adding that Labour remained close to people's realities and suffering.

Turning to undecided voters, Abela urged people to participate in the democratic process and not allow others to decide for them.

He asked voters to reflect on "which side" had shown competence, credibility and feasible ideas during the past weeks of campaigning, particularly in light of growing geopolitical challenges.

Abela contrasted his leadership team with "others who hid the people around them," saying Labour possessed the "elements and credentials" needed to continue governing the country.

The Prime Minister also appealed to first-time Labour voters, telling them to be proud of believing in the "Int Malta" project.

Abela referred to various groups in society, including workers, youths wanting to build families, students, children and people seeking to live in a tolerant country.

He also briefly mentioned attending a dialogue with the Special Olympics team the previous day - the same evening he skipped the debate organised by Il-Każin with PN leader Alex Borg - saying he admired the athletes participating, and those who "strive to form part of the country's success."

Abela concluded by urging supporters to collect their voting documents and vote for all Labour candidates on Saturday.

"You are Malta and Malta is you. Your dream, our project," he said.

The event was also addressed by Labour candidates Andy Ellul and Michael Falzon.

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