WATCH | Meet Your Candidate – Franco Mercieca

1. As a candidate what fresh ideas do you bring to Malta’s political system? 

More than an idea, it is a principle. Before personal interests, let us think collectively. In my opinion, we have become too individualistic, and the common good is paying the price for it. The nostalgia we feel for the Malta of past years is certainly not because we had more material things, but because we had stronger communities and nobody was just a number. 

2. What are the three pressing challenges facing the country in the next five years? 

High levels of activity are creating pressure on the way we live, as well as on our infrastructure. We should aim for quality and not quantity in all that we plan. 

An unstable international scenario is inevitably creating turbulence, and this means that an island nation like ours faces double challenges. I believe the EU should take on a more central role and speak with a stronger voice. 

We must continue strengthening the foundations of our economy while finding the critical balance between progress and the protection of our land. Surely all of us want to leave a better country for our children. 

3. Why did you decide to run for election? 

Many phone calls and a sense of responsibility and loyalty. 

4. What is one issue you are most personally passionate about, and why? 

Local identity. We must do everything possible to preserve what makes us Maltese and Gozitan—from our language, to our culture, and even our traditions. If we fail to protect these things, we simply become part of an overly globalised world. 

5. Outside of politics, how do you like to spend your free time? 

Walking in the countryside, enjoying a good glass of wine, debating with friends, and following sports, especially football. Juventus is my first love. 

Meet Your Candidate is a MaltaToday sponsored production aimed at providing visibility to candidates from all political parties during the 2026 general election