Kirkop mayor Terrance Agius, 18, is confident that his age will not be an issue. Photo: Matthew Mirabelli

Newly-elected Kirkop mayor Terrance Agius, 18, is very much aware that some people may doubt his competence because of his age and is determined to prove them wrong.

“I want to show these people that I will work hard for the people in my locality. I want to earn their trust, not only as an individual but I also want to prove that young people have a lot to contribute and can work very hard,” said Mr Agius, who was elected mayor with 391 votes on a Labour Party ticket, becoming Malta’s youngest-ever mayor.

According to three seasoned former and current mayors, the young man will be able to fulfil his role successfully – if there is good teamwork – and enjoys the support of the council’s executive secretary, who can guide him when necessary.

“He is an intelligent young man. He will find an organised office to continue to build on and will have the support of the executive secretary and the team,” said John Boxall, who has been Vittoriosa mayor for 24 years on the PL ticket.

Former Nationalist Pietà mayor Malcolm Mifsud, who served in office for 16 years, agreed, adding that a young mayor could bring a fresh outlook and energy to a council.

“I’m all for it. I was 25 when I was elected. He will have to stand his ground, as people will be questioning him all the time,” he said.

Mr Agius is ready. He noted that he had been involved in politics since he was 14 – having served as mayor of the Kirkop youth council – and always had something else to juggle, aside from his studies. He is therefore confident he will manage to juggle the roles of mayor and student.

He is in his final year at the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology, studying electrical and electronic engineering, and served as president of the Mcast student council.

I want to make a difference. That’s why I contested the local elections

“I am the type of person who always had something else going on apart from my studies. Since I was a child I liked being involved with people. I want to make a difference. That’s why I contested the local elections,” he said.

Michael Cohen, former Labour Kalkara mayor and former president of the Local Councils Association, said age should not be a factor in the success of a mayor.

“You can have an 18-year-old who works very hard and a 60-year-old who does nothing.

“It all depends on the individual and the needs of the locality,” he said, agreeing that a lot would hinge on whether Mr Agius was a good team player.