Robert Abela was officially sworn in as Maltaโs Prime Minister during a ceremony held at the Palace in Valletta on Monday morning, formally beginning another term in office following Labourโs election victory. The ceremony was presided over by President Myriam Spiteri Debono and attended by Chief Justice Mark Chetcuti, alongside senior officials, family members and invited guests. Large crowds of Labour supporters gathered in Valletta from the early hours of the morning, eager to witness the occasion and secure vantage points close to the Palace. Many supporters dressed in red and white, waving Labour and Maltese flags as elected candidates and party officials arrived. (Times of Malta)
Several animals died and farms sustained structural damage following the explosion that ripped through the Taโ Lourdes fireworks factory in Magฤงtab on Monday morning, according to farmers and animal welfare representatives in the area. Jeanette Borg, spokesperson for the MaYA Foundation, said a number of breeders reported significant damage to their properties, while animals including birds, rabbits, and dairy cows perished as a result of the blast. She explained that explosions can have devastating effects on livestock, not only through direct impact but also due to shockwaves, extreme noise, panic, and injuries caused by collapsing structures. Long-term consequences may al so include trauma, stress-related health conditions, and reduced production. Borg noted that Magฤงtab is designated as an agricultural area, increasing the risks associated with fireworks factories operating near farms. She added that many insurance policies do not cover livestock losses, leaving affected farmers facing financial and emotional hardship after the incident. (The Malta Independent)
Malta unemployment rate rises to 3.6% in April
Maltaโs unemployment rate climbed to 3.6% in April, with the number of unemployed people increasing by more than 3,000 since August last year, according to figures released by the National Statistics Office (NSO). The data, published two days after the general election, showed unemployment rising steadily over the past eight months, with the rate increasing from 2.69% in August 2025 to 3.6% in April 2026. A total of 12,400 people were registered as unemployed in April, compared to 9,123 in August, marking an increase of 3,277 individuals, or 36%. Youth unemployment also continued to rise, reaching 9.1%, more than three times higher than the rate recorded among people aged between 25 and 74. The figure was also above the 8.2% recorded a year earlier. (Newsbook)
