Morning Briefing
Labour maintains slim lead as disengagement increases
The Labour Party continues to hold a slim lead over the Nationalist Party, according to the latest MaltaToday survey, with the gap between the two parties now estimated at around 9,200 votes. Labour is projected to secure 48.9% of the vote, unchanged since November, while the PN stands at 45.7%, pointing to a much closer contest than suggested by earlier surveys over recent months. Previous polls had indicated far wider margins, in some cases exceeding 20,000 votes. The survey also signals growing disengagement, particularly among Labour voters, with almost 14% of those who voted PL in 2022 now saying they would abstain. However, the survey carried out in the first two weeks of January, also registers a drop in Prime Minister Robert Abela’s trust rating, from 45.2% to 41.3%. PN leader Alex Borg’s trust rating stands at 35.9%, a marginal increase of 0.6 points. (Maltatoday)
Galdes steps down amid further controversy
Housing Minister Roderick Galdes resigned on Saturday evening after weeks of mounting pressure linked to a controversial Gozo penthouse purchase and ahead of further reporting on alleged family links with contractors. A Sunday Times of Malta report revealed that a social housing contractor’s business ties with the social housing minister’s younger brother raised potential red flags within Malta’s anti-money laundering unit in 2021. Prime Minister Robert Abela said he accepted the resignation to allow Galdes to defend his reputation, stressing that the allegations remain unproven. Responsibility for affordable accommodation and social housing has been transferred to Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul, who will retain his existing role. Abela reiterated that housing remains a priority area, referring to reforms in pre-1995 rents while acknowledging the need to build further on past measures. The episode has intensified political scrutiny over governance and ministerial accountability. (Times of Malta)
Airport terminal expansion on track for 2028
Malta International Airport’s major terminal expansion is expected to be completed and open to passengers in 2028, MIA CEO Alan Borg has said. The project involves a 6,000-square-metre eastward extension adjacent to the existing terminal, with construction already under way. Borg described the works as particularly challenging, given that the airport continues to handle heavy passenger flows throughout the year while construction progresses. He stressed that the aim of the project is not to significantly increase passenger numbers, but to improve service quality and ease congestion, particularly in the departures area. With overcrowding becoming more frequent during peak periods, the expansion is intended to enhance the overall passenger experience and ensure the airport continues to meet its responsibilities as Malta’s sole air gateway.(The Malta Independent)
Sunday politics: PM hails childcare investment, Alex Borg says party remains the underdog
Prime Minister Robert Abela announced a new €276 million childcare agreement, an increase of €34 million on the current deal, aimed at keeping childcare services free while supporting families and workforce participation. He also highlighted recent tax cuts for parents, plans for a holistic reform of family law, and the need for safeguards on children’s use of technology. Addressing PN delegates and supporters in Gozo, Nationalist Party leader Alex Borg reacted to the latest polling data, saying the narrowing PN–PL gap offered hope but warning that the party remained the underdog. Borg also criticised the resignation of Roderick Galdes, arguing that continued scandals were harming Malta’s reputation and worsening pressures on young families. (Times of Malta)
