The delegates of the Malta Labour Party have to make another momentous decision that could have a determining effect on whether the MLP is considered to be a government in waiting and, more importantly, whether it will be successful in the next general election. This is the second time in two months they are faced with such a grave responsibility.

In early June, they were basically faced with a choice between two potential party leaders: Joseph Muscat and George Abela. They opted for Dr Muscat and since then the young member of the European Parliament has been making inroads. Indeed, he even paved the way for a select committee of the House of Representatives to be set up with the aim of strengthening democracy.

There were many who argued that in Dr Muscat's election the "party machinery" had won. Whether the "party machinery" was also behind the election of Anġlu Farrugia and Toni Abela as deputy leaders in mid-June is unclear. Indeed, some party insiders insist that their election "dispels the party machinery myth".

Today, the party delegates will vote to elect what is probably the second most influential actor within the MLP after the leader himself: the general secretary. The general secretary is the person who handles the day-to-day affairs of the party. He heads its administration and runs, hands-on, all its branches. As such, he could be in a position that may make or break what the leader and the party itself are setting out to do. A mere comment, the wrong body language and a lot of good, hard work can go up in smoke. If the country's recent political history is studied one is likely to come across a number of fine examples of this, just as much as one would find instances where the savoir faire and presence of mind of an able general secretary carried the day for a political party in turmoil or, indeed, in disarray.

The MLP delegates have four contenders to choose from: outgoing general secretary Jason Micallef, Keith Grech, Alfred Grixti and Joseph Vella Bonnici.

If one were to follow the logic adopted by the delegates so far, one could conclude that Mr Micallef is out, given that the top officials are all new people who did not form part of the old administration that had caused so many problems to the party. Indeed, if ever there was a time for the MLP to come up with a truly "New Labour" this is it.

Then there are, of course, the broadsides hurled at Mr Micallef including, but not only, by outgoing deputy leader Michael Falzon, MP Leo Brincat and Mr Micallef's predecessor Jimmy Magro.

Yet, the delegates' choice cannot be based on perceptions or outbursts - even the wishes of the party machinery. Their objective is to go for that man who can best handle the party's administration and day-to-day matters within the context of today's and future realities and requirements. It has also to be a man who is able to work closely and harmoniously with the leader. They need to speak the same language, be on the same wavelength and share a vision, which does not mean they must always agree on everything.

There is material to choose from, provided the delegates keep an open mind.