Labour MP Mariah Meli has rejected the idea that Labour is losing popularity despite its reduced electoral margin in the latest general election. She instead highlighted that Labour won a fourth consecutive general election, describing it as an unprecedented achievement in Maltese politics.

Meli argued that Labour's vote tally remains stronger than figures achieved by the Nationalist Party during its election victories. Moreover, she said that Labour's latest electoral victory represents both a privilege and a responsibility entrusted to the party by voters.

In an interview with The Malta Independent on Sunday, Meli said that Labour has demonstrated its credibility and resilience during periods of international instability and economic shocks, including Covid-19, the Russia-Ukraine war, and wider international geopolitical tensions.

She claimed that the Labour government has protected citizens, families and businesses from the effects of global crises through government intervention and support measures. In contrast, she argued that previous Nationalist administrations allowed the impact of international crises to fall more heavily on citizens and businesses. Meli recalled that under PN governments, families paid higher taxes, fuel prices and electricity bills. She contrasted this with the Labour government, stating that recent budgets have introduced no new taxes and no increases in fuel or energy prices.

"The people can weigh the difference from when the Nationalist Party was in government during international crises," she said.

Meli said Malta's economic growth brings both advantages and drawbacks, but argued that it enables the government to provide financial support and benefits to families and businesses during crises. She argued that without this economic stability, citizens in other countries, including some EU states, have borne a heavier burden during crises. She said Malta's economic performance has also helped attract foreign investment and create new opportunities, especially during periods of global instability.

Turning to her personal experience running for MP, Meli said that one of the main things she was asked about by voters was her young age and what encouraged her to get into politics. She explained that her experience in politics was not always being the frontperson, and she had previously worked behind the scenes as a campaigner. She described politics as something that must evolve alongside a changing society and said that direct contact with constituents helped her better understand people's challenges and needs.

"In order to understand the needs of the society, we need to remain close to our people," she said.

Meli said one of her main priorities in Parliament will be advocating for minority and vulnerable groups who face barriers to accessing opportunities. She argued that while Malta has expanded opportunities in welfare, education and employment, some people still struggle to benefit from them due to personal or social obstacles. She said she wants to support policies that help disadvantaged groups overcome barriers and achieve their aspirations.

Asked which groups she had in mind, Meli pointed to people who must rebuild their lives after major personal setbacks, including single parents, separated adults and widowed individuals. She said these groups often require State support when forced to start over, especially while caring for children.

"It is very crucial that in that vulnerable moment in their life, they find support even from the State," Meli said.

Another key focus for her will be the environment and quality of life, which she said goes beyond creating open spaces. Meli praised government investment in projects such as Manoel Island, Fort Tigné, White Rocks and Fort Campbell, describing them as part of a long-term vision for the country. That being said, she said environmental policy should also address cleanliness, accessibility, inclusivity and the overall experience of residents in their communities.

When Meli was asked to identify a PN proposal from the electoral campaign that she supported, she cited its focus on renewable energy. She said she agreed with the principle of expanding renewable energy and noted that both major parties, as well as smaller parties, have placed greater emphasis on environmental sustainability. However, she questioned the PN's credibility on implementation, arguing that inconsistencies in targets and costings weaken confidence in its proposals. Meli said that Malta needs a clear and credible long-term strategy to ensure the country is prepared for future external economic and energy shocks.

Turning to issues that particularly affect District 9, which is the district that she represents, Meli identified the main challenge as managing the consequences of economic growth and development. She said that economic stability has increased demand for construction and vehicle use, contributing to challenges such as traffic congestion.

She singled out construction activity as a particular concern in the localities she represents. She argued that investments in major open-space projects can help strike a balance between development and environmental protection. Meli said policymakers must continue working towards a balance between economic progress, quality of life, wellbeing and the preservation of open spaces.

When asked whether she agreed with a recent Facebook post made by former MEP Marlene Mizzi arguing that the gender corrective mechanism should not be able to elect a candidate to Parliament twice, Meli fell short of answering the question and instead stressed that regardless of how MPs are elected, all of them have the same voting rights and responsibilities once seated.

Meli said MPs must recognise that their vote carries responsibility because they ultimately represent citizens, not the mechanism through which they were elected. She emphasised that elected officials should use their mandate wisely and in the interest of the country and its citizens. She said it is ultimately the responsibility of elected politicians to use their position democratically and to deliver meaningful change.

Asked about the fireworks factory blast that affected her district shortly after the election, Meli said it is important to await the outcome of the official inquiry before making decisions. She said any future measures should balance preserving Malta's fireworks traditions and cultural identity with ensuring public safety and protecting nearby residents. She added that decisions on fireworks factories and related regulations should be based on the findings of the inquiry.