It is a fact that in recent years there has been a radical change in Maltese society. The rush to modernise appears to be unstoppable.

Frank Psaila’s underlying premise (‘The right man for the job’, August 18) is that the Nationalist Party may win back votes and become a people’s party by embracing this new-found liberalism. Such an argument is overly simplistic.

Do we honestly think that riding the liberal wave will help the PN garner more votes? Do we believe that giving civil unions ‘marriage equality’ will solve all the PN’s woes? It is naïve to even consider that the PN was kicked out of office solely because of these specific social issues. There is no silver bullet, so let’s not jump to solutions.

Psaila suggests that PN leader Simon Busuttil “needs to prove that he can be bold and assertive” by ridding the party of its ‘conservative’ members. I beg to differ.

Differences are not a weakness but a strength. Diversity is positive when it is accompanied – from all sides – by constant dialogue, a non-judgmental attitude and absolute respect for persons who take different positions.

Why threaten punishment if ‘conservative’ politicians don’t share the ‘liberal’ assessment of the circumstances? The PN should be proud of the diverse beliefs and ideas within it. Despite having people with different opinions on civil unions, Busuttil was capable of keeping them together through structured coordination and strategic management of diversities. ‘Brave’, ‘bold’ and ‘assertive’ leaders stimulate collaboration, embrace and value diversity in people and integrate opposing views.

I would hate to think that when morally charged issues are discussed within the PN, a muted response from the so-called ‘conservative’ MPs is expected. The PN still has a great deal to contribute to society through its Christian faith and values.

The party has to adopt a can-do-attitude, stay forward focused, look ahead to how things can be better and not look back on how bad they’ve been.

Led by its leader, the PN will become more ‘modern’ by growing in its ability to engage in serious discussion within and outside the party, driven by respect, openness and trust, despite mutual differences. That way it will better mirror the Maltese society and ‘restore its image as a party that cares’.

This is the PN’s ‘moment of trust.’ It is an opportunity to either build or erode trust. It allows people to feel valued and to give feedback that builds trust, not destroys it. Let’s hope the PN seizes it!