Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1545068
10 maltatoday | TUESDAY • 26 MAY 2026 OPINION ELECTION 2026 Rodrick Zerafa 1. What new ideas will you bring to the Mal- tese political system? Despite my young age, I firmly believe that I can bring with me the experience that I have gained throughout my work in the public service over the last 12 years. This experience gives me the op- portunity to better understand both the needs of the people and the way public services are man- aged so that they can truly make a difference in people's lives. Parliament needs a greater mix of people coming from different sectors of life; in- dividuals who bring with them different experi- ences, new ideas and fresh energy. Among these are young people, who have a lot to offer in terms of vision, dynamism and enthusiasm to continue moving our country forward. I also believe that my candidacy can serve as an important voice for the people of the 2 District, particularly the resi- dents of Żabbar and Cottonera. 2. What are the three most urgent challenges the country will face in the next five years? I believe that one of the most important chal- lenges is ensuring that we continue guarantee- ing stability in our country. The second challenge is continuing to strengthen our economy. We cannot speak about social progress if we do not have solid economic foundations that allow us to invest in healthcare, education, pensions and the services that people depend on every day. I also believe that the time has come to give a new push to the transport sector. We must now make the next leap—a modern, integrated and efficient system that connects different means of transport together. We must also maintain a balance between development and quality of life. People are expecting more open spaces, greater cleanliness, more security and a better environ- ment for our children. 3. What made you decide to contest the elec- tion? There were two main factors that led me to make this important decision. First of all was the show of trust from Prime Minister Robert Abela and his request for me to take this step and be- come part of his team in parliament in the next legislature. He gave me courage and motivation to believe even more in my potential to make a greater contribution to the country. On the other hand, I also believe that this was a natural step in my career, having begun my activ- ism within the Labour Party during my time with the Labour Youth Forum together with its then President Alex Agius Saliba. Over the last two years I also had the opportunity to lead a gov- ernment agency in the European funds sector as chief executive officer. This experience helped me better understand how European funds can be used to create new opportunities, improve com- munities and make long-term investments for the benefit of the country. I believe politics should be a means of advancing the just causes of the peo- ple and making a positive difference in their lives. 4. Mention an issue you are particularly pas- sionate about, and why? Without a doubt, I have more than one cause close to my heart. Primarily the economy, be- cause I believe it is the foundation of everything. A country with a strong economy can offer more opportunities to its people and continue invest- ing in services that make a difference in citizens' lives. I also have a strong interest in the European sector and foreign affairs. I believe Malta should continue to be a country that looks outward, strengthens its international relations and take full advantage of the opportunities offered by EU membership. I would also like to push forward sports at a professional level and among our chil- dren and young people. I believe that a stronger sporting culture leads to a healthier society, both physically and mentally. 5. Outside politics, how do you like to spend your free time? Sport is undoubtedly my greatest passion. I en- joy following football and being actively involved in it. At present I still contribute to the committee of Żabbar St Patrick FC. I really enjoy travelling and exploring different cultures. I believe that when you travel you learn more about people, about the way they think and about new ideas that can help you grow both personally and pro- fessionally. I also have a great passion for culinary experiences and I enjoy discovering new foods and traditions wherever I go. Quickfire Q&A LABOUR PARTY Outdoing each other Saviour Balzan Founder and co-owner of Media Today, publisher of MaltaToday, he is a TV host and pollster I have lived with polls all my adult life, but I am starting to believe that people are becom- ing so cynical that they are not really telling us what they think or will do. MaltaToday will be publish- ing its survey tomorrow; a scientific poll that takes into consideration multiple varia- bles. It's all about trying to un- derstand the silent electorate's psyche and intention but do- ing so is becoming harder for everyone. People will largely fall in two broad camps. Those who want to retain the status quo, which translates into keeping Robert Abela as prime minister, and those opting for a fresh face, which means choosing Alex Borg. Now that is not a compli- cated observation to make, but of one thing I am sure—com- placency does not work well for the incumbent. In this campaign we have seen both parties make generous of- ferings to the electorate. It was often a farce as the parties tried to outdo each other on who had the biggest handouts. And this apart from the projects that are supposed to create new revenue streams. But beyond these monetary proposals and infrastructural projects there were statements made by the two main leaders that intrigued me most. In Robert Abela's case, I was intrigued by his emphasis and his hand on heart declaration about reaching consensus on the planning laws and the new local plans. I will take those words and see that he puts his money where his mouth is. He said the planning laws would take on board all stakeholders' points of view. On the local plans he pledged not to widen development zones and ensure unbuilt government land re- mains so. In Alex Borg's case, I was pleased when he said he was sorry for all those who had been hurt by previous Nationalist administrations. That was nice to hear, considering the odium that dominated the Gonzi years and after that. Borg knows all too well which segment of PN enthusiasts spun this web of hate. Nonetheless, he is to be commended for speaking those words. During the campaign both Abela and Borg have managed to limit the appearance of cer- tain characters. Joseph Muscat appeared on One TV, but I am sure he was not pushed by the campaign team. And in the Na- tionalist fold, the likes of Jason Azzopardi have been marginal- ised. Both parties have been care- ful not to antagonise sectors of voters and to avoid controver- sy. And both sides have avoided accusing each other of abuse of powers or unethical behaviour. It is rather surprising really that the parties have managed to rally thousands without re- sorting to dirty tactics.