Politicians often get a bad reputation for being in it for themselves. And sadly, we did have our fair share of politicians who may have contributed further to this notion. Perhaps the rising disenfranchisement from politics that we are feeling as a nation, especially from the younger generation who feel increasingly disconnected, can more or less be justified.

It is worrying to note how the cohort of non voters continues to grow in Malta, almost becoming a new party in its own right. In fact, a large portion of Malta's electorate has grown disinterested, in the way politics is done, and this is something that worries me deeply. 

It is in this context that I have decided to throw my hat in the ring and run for the upcoming election with the Nationalist Party. In these few words, I will illustrate why I believe we can do politics differently, and how we can bring new hope for those who feel disconnected, disheartened and somewhat disappointed in our politicians. 

While proposals are crucial to describe a party's ambitions on a macro scale, I believe politics should also inspire a better life for today and for tomorrow, based on shared values of dialogue, humility, and above all humanity.

Many families today are carrying burdens that remain hidden away, under layers and layers of modern-day gloss. Anxiety has become part of our daily lives, young people increasingly speak about uncertainty and burnout, as they feel this country no longer holds a future for them, one that feels safe and serene. Our elderly often struggle with loneliness combined with financial pressures which in turn continue adding to their vulnerabilities. Young parents feel exhausted, as no matter how hard they work, they feel that they can never make that quality leap they keep being promised.

Wholeheartedly, I believe that good leadership should strive to improve people's quality of life in tangible ways. But at the same time, it must do it with the right intentions. All too often we're faced by brazen handouts that make absolutely no effort to disguise their ill-conceived intent. Politics shouldn't be reduced to a transactional exercise. Its goal is far nobler than that.

True leadership is measured by whether people feel seen, recognised, heard and understood beyond the electoral season. 

Alex Borg, together with all the candidates on the PN ballot, is determined to restore this human dimension to politics. Not simply presenting proposals, but placing people back at the centre of national priorities. Not treating citizens as voting blocs to be won over every five years, but as individuals deserving respect, dignity and genuine care.

I believe in a politics of reassurance, dignity, stability and empathy. Proposals that address our people's greatest headaches, be it economic, social or anything that keeps them up at night. But proposals that do this within a vision for a better Malta and Gozo and not a series of stop-gap improvisations that only serve the here and now.  

Politics with heart means a brand of politics that is grounded in humanity, compassion and understanding. Because behind every vote there is a human being, a beating heart filled with hopes, dreams, ambitions, real worries and real feelings. 

I strongly believe we can build a country where political debate does not deepen hatred. Where we can agree to disagree. Where success does not come at the expense of mental wellbeing. Where vulnerable people are not forgotten and where success is not measured exclusively in economic data, but in real well being.

I believe in a new way of doing politics, one that stays close to the people who are affected by it most, and is inspired by the values that make us proud of who we are.

Marilena Gauci is the Nationalist Party's spokesperson for the film industry