Something for delegates to think about (1)

At last, the much-awaited moment, that of electing a new Labour leader, has arrived. This moment is not only important for the Labour Party but also for the country in general because it will shape the future of politics in Malta.

Much is at stake in this election. Perhaps many delegates who will vote tomorrow do not even realise this. They will not only elect their new leader but they will also decide if Labour will steer towards electability or face political oblivion.

The Prime Minister said that Labour has to think not only about what's good for the party but what's good for the country. Well, dear Prime Minister, what's best for the country is a new democratic Labour Party in government as soon as possible.

Who is the best of the five contestants? Who is the one who can turn a party in shambles into a force to be reckoned with? There is no doubt in my mind that George Abela is the best suited of the lot. He has got what it takes to be a good leader. He has always been consistent and pro-EU. Leadership qualities certainly put him a cut above the rest: His personality, credibility, media friendliness and, last but not least, his charisma.

He also has something which all the others lack - he is seen as a safe pair of hands by Nationalists and floating voters and this quality is of the utmost importance because it may well be the deciding factor in a general election.

The delegates have to keep one thing in mind when voting. Nine hundred delegates will vote for the Labour leader but in five years' time all Malta will vote for the new Prime Minister. Don't decide with your heart but with your heart and your soul. All the surveys have been saying one thing: That the Maltese people think that with Dr Abela as leader, Labour stand the best chance of being elected to government in five years' time. Delegates need to keep that in mind when making their decision. Time will tell if they made the right choice.