Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1249395
maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 20 MAY 2020 Robert Abela's THE results speak for themselves. Malta's robust health system, and the measured and staggered re- sponse has so far proved to be ef- fective in containing the COVID-19 outbreak. The new prime minister, Robert Abela, can take credit for presiding over a collective effort which unit- ed the nation. He also managed to convey optimism in a testing time for the nation. Now he seems even more confident in steering the country back to a sense of normal- ity. However, the crisis has also ex- posed some questionable character. Abela's long-winded introductions to COVID-19 announcements gives the impression that he is still struggling to affirm his leadership. The sheer length of his speeches increases the risk of sending mixed messages on a very delicate topic that often results in a lack of focus. This has amplified the contrast with the more sober and cautious approach of his deputy, health min- ister Chris Fearne, raising doubt on who of the two speaks more like a PM and who still speaks like a par- ty leader. But the balancing act be- tween the two politicians may well have consolidated Labour's hold over different segments of the elec- torate. In addition, by roping Fearne and Public Health Superintendent Charmaine Gauci in his speech to the nation on Monday, Abela in- sured himself against any future backlash if the easing of restrictions results in an increase of COVID-19 speeches. For now, both Gauci and Fearne have invested their profes- sional and political capital in an ex- it strategy. Still, out of respect for Gauci's presence, Abela could have assumed a more statesman-like de- meanour and avoid spending nearly 15 minutes replying to a question on the use of social media by his ministers, which he turned in to an opportunity to give a more partisan twist to the event. If the easing of COVID-19 measures pays off, Robert Abela will emerge politically stronger as the man who steered the country through an unprecedented crisis. If not, he could end up with egg on his face. COVID-19 was his baptism of fire: how has he fared so far? JAMES DEBONO asks