Robert Abela

Malta’s next election will take place next year, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced on Monday.

Responding to questions from journalists at an event to announce the €7.5 million expansion of Seifert Systems’ facilities in the country, Prime Minister Abela confirmed the election will take place next year, and accused the Opposition of fostering uncertainty by speculating about the date of the next election.

His announcement came after weeks of speculation regarding the calling of an early election failed to reach a head last week, despite predictions that one would be called.

The announcement will likely come as a relief to Malta’s business leaders, who previously expressed concern that a November election would disrupt consumer sentiments in the run up to the vital festive period for retailers.

Despite his accusations that the Opposition fostered uncertainty with its speculation that an election would take place this year, the Prime Minister has himself, on numerous occasions, refused to clarify whether the country will go to the polls this year or next.

Speaking on Monday, he reiterated that only the national interest could determine when an election will be held, adding “I do not think that it is in the national interest for an election to be held this year.”

Related

What should landlords look out for when taking on new tenants?

September 30, 2023
by Robert Fenech

From contracts to inspections, here is what landlords need to know

August saw Maltese business activity ‘broadly in line’ with long-term average

September 29, 2023
by Robert Fenech

The Central Bank of Malta’s economic update shows that business confidence edged down, but remains higher than average

Buckle up Apple enthusiasts! Long queues waiting to buy limited stock of new iPhone 15 line-up

September 29, 2023
by Anthea Cachia

No timeframe was given as to when new stock will be supplied to other outlets