Malta’s Labour Party secures fourth consecutive parliamentary victory

Malta’s governing Labour Party has won a historic fourth successive term in office, consolidating its hold on power in the Mediterranean island nation.

Prime Minister Robert Abela declared victory, stating: “This is a victory for all citizens, based on the programme we presented to the entire population.” He called for national unity, adding: “Let us maintain the spirit of national unity and move the country forward together.”

According to preliminary results, the Labour Party achieved a solid parliamentary majority, although smaller than the landslide recorded in 2022 (when it won 55% of the vote).

Charles Bonello, Secretary General of the opposition Nationalist Party, conceded defeat in an interview with public broadcaster TVM. He noted, however, that his party had significantly narrowed the gap with the Labour Party.

Voter turnout reached 87.4%, a slight increase compared to the previous election.

Strong economy, growing social concerns

During the campaign, the Labour Party highlighted Malta’s robust economic performance, emphasising governmental experience and administrative reliability.

The Nationalist Party countered that, despite economic growth, citizens’ quality of life has deteriorated.

Tiny Malta remains one of the EU’s strongest economic performers. Last year it recorded 4% GDP growth, low inflation, and one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe. Electricity and fuel prices have been frozen for nearly a decade, keeping energy costs among the lowest on the continent.

Nevertheless, challenges remain. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East could trigger new inflationary pressures, given Malta’s heavy reliance on imports. A potential rise in aviation fuel prices could also harm the vital tourism sector.

Immigration and pressure on public services

Another key campaign issue was the sharp population growth driven by the influx of foreign workers over the past decade.

While this migration has fuelled economic expansion, it has also raised concerns about rising rents, urban overcrowding, and increasing strain on infrastructure and the healthcare system.

The new legislature will face a complex task: sustaining the strong economic growth of recent years while addressing social tensions, the cost-of-living crisis, and the capacity of public services to support a rapidly expanding population.

The original article in Italian by EUalive’s partner FocusEurope.it can be found here.

Caption: handout photo made available by Malta’s Department of Information shows Malta’s Prime Minister Robert Abela (R) casting his ballot while his wife, Lydia Abela (2R), is looking on, during parliamentary elections, Valletta, Malta, 30 May 2026. General elections are being held in Malta on 30 May to elect all members of the House of Representatives. EPA/OMAR CAMILLERI/DOI MALTA/HANDOUT