Election fever - Malta 2013

So, well, yesterday the election campaign was officially inaugurated. I do not want to delve into politics for it is far from a favourite topic for me. In any case I have long decided who to cast my vote for but that is very personal, as with many things in my life as of late.

So far I have seen and noted the following though, useless and senseless slogans, posters which to me are a complete waste of money, when the money could be invested elsewhere and this I am talking about both sides (and possibly a third if the Greens are contesting the upcoming election) etc ..

Yes, fine, for some it is fun, meeting up, having a good time, hailing and cheering their leader, some in the cold, others in warmer surroundings. Red, blue (and possibly green) are the trend colours in Malta at the moment .. but seriously .. what are we expecting from this campaign ??

That the floaters will take their decision ? That those undecided will make their decisions, that those who have been disgruntled and vowed not to cast their vote to anyone to have them change their minds ? What really is this campaign all about ? From what I figure, this campaign is a last minute reach out to those people who are unsure as what to do more than what the party is promising for the next term.

In any case, let us remember that we are all Maltese, that we should not fall into the trap of attacking each other, calling each other names, making enemies of each other simply because of differences in political opinions. Some are passionate about their politics but we must remember that everybody has a right to their own opinion, whether we are in agreement with it or not. Yes, sure, we can argue certain issues but it does not mean either side is right or wrong. Let us not let politics come in our way, affecting friendships, acquaintances and the like.

This is as far as I will delve into politics. I have had my fair share of being an activist back in the 80's but my life has had a turning and I am otherwise taken up with many other things and have many more important priorities in my life other than participating in any political campaign. Aside from the fact that the word politics does not entice me at all.

One final thing I wish to say is let us not make this campaign a war of the worlds in Malta..as they say..ghax dak laburist, mhux maghna or ghax dak nazzjonalist kontra taghna. There are more serious issues in life, imagine those with illnesses for which there is no treatment but have to live with their disabilities for the rest of their lives. Politics belongs to politicians and I will leave it at that. Always do remember one thing .. We are all Maltese under the same sky. Let nothing divide us.

I wish all Maltese a safe campaign.

stef