Prime Minister Robert Abela announced that the 2026 Budget will be presented on 27 October, describing it as the “fourth of the five” in this legislature. Speaking at a Labour Party event, he said the budget would again include tax reductions and increased investment in social services. While other countries face austerity, Malta could “give more” thanks to strong economic performance, Abela said. He pledged to maintain subsidies on energy, fuel and gas, and insisted the budget would not simply be an election exercise, noting that “we have had election budgets one after the other.” Parliament resumes on Monday after a short summer break, with the first bill focusing on road discipline. (Newsbook)
PN leader Borg says party can win election The Nationalist Party can “do the impossible” and win if a snap election is called, new PN leader Alex Borg told supporters in Gozo. Borg, elected last week, said members had chosen not just a leader of the PN and Opposition, but the “future prime minister of Malta and Gozo.” He argued that Prime Minister Robert Abela’s talk of destabilisation showed fear of facing a united PN. Borg pledged to open the party to all Maltese and Gozitans, including “genuine Labourites hurt by their own party.” Stressing unity, he met rival Adrian Delia soon after his victory and outlined plans to revitalise the party’s structures, including creating a Gozo policy forum, appointing a CEO, and launching crowdfunding. (The Malta Independent)
EV charging infrastructure expansion ongoing despite delays The government’s project to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure is ongoing, though the initial target of 1,572 public chargers by the end of 2025 may not be fully met. The Energy and Water Agency said there are currently 378 charging points across Malta and Gozo, excluding private installations. The plan is part of Malta’s 2050 carbon-neutral strategy, with Energy Minister Miriam Dalli highlighting the role of EVs in cutting emissions. The agency explained delays stemmed from procurement processes and work on technical specifications. Consultants were engaged to ensure the project reflects market developments, with the EWA emphasising the adjustments will strengthen the project in the long term. (Maltatoday)
