PN’s first hundred days

It has now been three months, and counting, from the March 9 general election. Undoubtedly this relatively short period of time has left an indelible mark on the story of the Nationalist Party as it sought and still continues to seek to digest the events emanating from the March result.

And yet within these first 100 days we now have a completely re-vamped party almost unre­cognisable from such a short while ago.

During this time PN activists and party faithful have had time for much soul searching and reflection.

Unquestionably the electoral result was an unreserved shock to many.

Frankly, it was not the actual defeat, which was more or less expected given that the party had won three consecutive elections – a record winning streak unseen before in Maltese politics!

Now that the process of regeneration is complete, many challenges await

But rather it was the abysmal margin by which PN lost this election that rocked many, and with reason.

This has been one of the hardest times for the Nationalist Party, a party whose history spans more than a century.

Yet given the result and the initial shellshock, I must admit that the PN has been able to rise to this difficult occasion with zeal and great determination.

The way in which the renewing process evolved confirmed the many strengths this political force still possesses.

The process has sent a strong signal that this party remains strong and compact and unshaken in its determination to continue to grow and evolve.

I must congratulate our out­going leader Lawrence Gonzi for his immediate resignation following the electoral result.

His momentous decision was a catalyst in re-establishing the party foothold.

In fewer than 100 days, the PN councillors have managed to elect a new leader. Alongside Simon Busuttil, we now also enjoy the energies and experience of two deputy leaders, Beppe Fenech Adami for party affairs and Mario de Marco for parliamentary affairs.

In this short time we have also managed to elect a new executive committee and elected a new administrative team.

On a personal note I must admit these three months have been extremely hectic as I was involved in the process from start to finish.

From the election of a new leader to the confirmation of the new general secretary Chris Said, I can confirm that, throughout the whole process, I observed a great sense of collegiality given the circumstances outlined.

The process was carried out with extreme civility and a great sense of honour.

It goes without saying that, following the massive electoral defeat, the way the process evolved indicates that the party can now function in an air of cooperation and sense of harmony.

I was equally impressed by the frank, open and honest debate that occurred within the many political meetings that were held prior to each election.

These re-invigorating sessions saw activists and people who have the PN at heart debate in earnest. This spirit I admit was lacking in recent years.

This political momentum was the result of wholehearted participation by activists, sectional committee members and party members. Throughout these debates many expressed their frustrations, hopes and ideas that will form the basis for the way forward.

I genuinely believe that these ideas will come to life as the party sets to work in the coming months.

Now that the process of regeneration is complete, many challenges await the Nation-alist Party.

The challenges ahead are not only political but also financial. The latter require a massive effort as the party struggles in financial dire straits.

It will require the collective effort of many and no small dose of sheer determination from the many that have the party at heart.

Of course, the task is not insurmountable. Yet it requires a concrete and factual plan that is as inspiring as it must be intelligent.

Whether we like it or not, this remains a principal challenge.

In the meantime, the PN must regroup and revitalise its political agenda.

There are quite a few issues, among them no doubt the question of civil liberties, which need re-thinking, and others that must be confronted clearly and without fudging.

The reasons for the March defeat are manifold.

Only through a sense of humility and genuine collective effort can we slowly regain the electorate’s trust. Anything less will be found lacking.

Ahead of the Nationalist Party is an exciting time that requires intensive work, a sense of duty and unwavering loyalty.

There is no reason to be disheartened. Rather, the challenges that await us should galvanise us into action.

Only in this way will the PN regain its position and prepare itself for its future commitments.

info@carolinegalea.com