22nd May, 2025
Press release: Respect the will of the people in Għargħur
The recent events in Għargħur raise serious concerns about respect for democratic choice. Despite a clear 62% majority in the last local elections, a political manoeuvre by the Labour Party has overturned the voters’ will on who should be mayor in the locality.
Mark Camilleri Gambin, Secretary of Momentum, stated: “What transpired in Għargħur is unacceptable. The will of the people should always be respected. If there were any shortcomings in the former mayor’s administration, the relevant authorities should investigate, point out the alleged illegalities and thus motivate why the mayor should be removed.
The Nationalist Party should also carry out an internal review to establish the facts and publish its findings”
Camilleri Gambin adds that “Unfortunately, the current law allows for loopholes in such situations. These loopholes must be urgently addressed. The Local Councils Act, originally enacted in 1992, needs to be revised to reflect today’s political landscape, especially with the growing number of independent and third-party candidates being elected.
Proper rules must be put in place to prevent similar situations in future, ensure a level playing field and to safeguard democracy at all levels.”
