Whoever expected some major announcement during Lawrence Gonzi’s speech at the Independence Day mass meeting at the Granaries must have been sorely disappointed.
The only noteworthy element in his address was its overall “steady-as-she-goes” attitude.
Such a stance would be more than welcome from a government leader, were it not in stark contrast with what is actually taking place in the corridors of power.
The Prime Minister has yet again stated his government will stay in power as long as it enjoys the confidence of Parliament. Yet, why would a government that exudes so much confidence in its backing be so anxious to have as few votes on Bills as possible?
Dr Gonzi also attacks the Labour Party’s right to express its doubts regarding the competence of some ministers. However, is it not the duty of the Opposition party to make such judgements to ensure the citizens’ welfare?
I was also baffled by Dr Gonzi’s interpretation of history. In his speech, he often repeated the phrase “the right side of history”, which any reputable historian would avoid like the plague.
One cannot but feel sorry at the way our common heritage is being manipulated to serve political purposes.
Only a person with no inkling of Malta’s history would accept the Prime Minister’s understanding of history. Hearing him, you would think that the Nationalist Party had single-handedly achieved all the characteristics that make us a free and democratic society.
Such a warped view of events brings my thoughts back to discussions I often have with acquaintances on the divisiveness of history.
It is because of such politically charged and one-sided speeches that scholarly attempts to analyse the past century are practically taboo in Malta.
Unfortunately, the PN is missing every chance to promote serious debate and reconciliation.
Once more it has opted for the easy way out by turning a deaf ear to the various pleas for rights and reforms and by interpreting events, both past and present, as suiting its political ends.
Still, Dr Gonzi is right about one thing: the people do know where they stand with the PN and I think that the opinion polls reflect this quite clearly.