Courage, unity, renewal

In the past days, much has been said and written about the Nationalist Party, its future and the sudden resignation of Bernard Grech as party leader. This is a moment that naturally invites reflection, debate and even speculation. But for me, as a young politician who deeply loves my country and my party, this is first and foremost a moment for calm, honest and constructive thinking about where we go from here.

First and foremost, I would like to publicly thank Grech. He stepped into leadership at a very difficult time, when the party was facing significant internal and external challenges. He did not inherit an easy task. Yet, with resilience, determination and a fatherly spirit, he worked tirelessly to heal the wounds within the party, restore unity and give us a sense of direction.

In a very short time – and despite unprecedented circumstances, including the COVID-19 pandemic, which made political outreach and campaigning almost impossible – he managed to reinvigorate our parliamentary group, modernise our internal structures and lead us into a general election.

He leaves behind a much stronger, more united party. For this, he deserves our full gratitude and respect.

As the discussion over the future of the PN intensifies, one thing is clear to me: all this debate is itself a sign of hope. It shows that people still care about the Nationalist Party. It shows that the electorate craves not only an effective opposition but a strong, credible alternative government. And that is what we now must build with courage and responsibility.

The party will soon elect a new leader. This is an important decision.

The person chosen will carry the responsibility of leading the PN into the next general election, which could happen within two years – or even earlier if a snap election is called. This possibility makes it even more urgent for the party to remain focused, united and disciplined.

But, as we move forward, I believe it is important that we shift our attention from what has happened in the past to what every one of us can do today. This is not the moment to dwell on what was done or not done. It is the moment for every member, supporter and friend of the Nationalist Party to ask one simple question: How can I contribute to making this party stronger, more relevant and better prepared to serve our country?

We all know the reality: we are trailing in the polls; we need to elect a new leader; and we face an uphill battle with a political opponent who uses all the country’s resources for his political gain. What matters most now is how we collectively support the new leadership to modernise, to open the party further to society and to reconnect with the people.

The road ahead requires us to listen more carefully to the concerns and aspirations of the people.

Our society is evolving and so are its priorities. The political landscape is changing rapidly and the Nationalist Party must adapt with it.

The PN is failing to connect with the electorate, especially with younger voters- Joseph Grech

We need to invest seriously in how we communicate with today’s electorate. Yes, we own a fully-fledged media house – but it is not enough.

The surveys are telling us clearly that we are failing to connect with the electorate, especially with younger voters. This is a gap we cannot afford to ignore. We need to speak their language, address their realities and offer them not just criticism of the government but a genuine vision of opportunity and progress.

Moreover, we need to reach out beyond our traditional base, especially to those who have grown disillusioned with politics altogether. There are thousands of people who today feel politically homeless. To them, we must offer not more partisanship but hope – a serious, competent and inclusive alternative.

We need to show preparedness to govern by proposing fresh, ambitious policies. We must set the agenda –not follow others’. We must have the courage to discuss not one issue but the broader picture of where Malta needs to go in the next decade.

We must also have the confidence to stop labelling each other according to past internal divisions. This is not the time for camps or factions. This is the time to be inclusive, to open the party’s doors to anyone who wants to work for a better Malta, regardless of personal loyalties or preferences.

Our interest must be to see the party come back stronger, more relevant and more inspiring. The PN needs to once again become the natural home of those who want a more just, prosperous and well-governed Malta.

In the weeks to come, let us not create further internal wounds. Let us discuss the future of the party, let us debate ideas. The contest should be about who has the best ideas, motivation, energy and determination to take us to the next level.

Let us be proud of who we are. Let us be proud of what our party has achieved for Malta. But, above all, let us be brave enough to look forward with confidence, optimism and unity – to build a new political force – a modernised Nationalist Party, an effective opposition ready to govern.

Joseph Grech is chairperson of the Nationalist Party’s Executive and an electoral candidate for the 11th district.