WATCH | Meet Your Candidate – Rodrick Zerafa

1. What new ideas will you bring to the Maltese political system? 

Despite my young age, I firmly believe that I can bring with me the experience that I have gained throughout my work in the public service over the last 12 years. This experience gives me the opportunity to better understand both the needs of the people and the way public services are managed so that they can truly make a difference in people’s lives. 

Parliament needs a greater mix of people coming from different sectors of life; individuals who bring with them different experiences, new ideas and fresh energy. Among these are young people, who have a lot to offer in terms of vision, dynamism and enthusiasm to continue moving our country forward. 

I also believe that my candidacy can serve as an important voice for the people of the 2 District, particularly the residents of Żabbar and Cottonera. 

2. What are the three most urgent challenges the country will face in the next five years? 

I believe that one of the most important challenges is ensuring that we continue guaranteeing stability in our country. 

The second challenge is continuing to strengthen our economy. We cannot speak about social progress if we do not have solid economic foundations that allow us to invest in healthcare, education, pensions and the services that people depend on every day. 

I also believe that the time has come to give a new push to the transport sector. We must now make the next leap—a modern, integrated and efficient system that connects different means of transport together. 

We must also maintain a balance between development and quality of life. People are expecting more open spaces, greater cleanliness, more security and a better environment for our children. 

3. What made you decide to contest the election? 

There were two main factors that led me to make this important decision. First of all was the show of trust from Prime Minister Robert Abela and his request for me to take this step and become part of his team in parliament in the next legislature. He gave me courage and motivation to believe even more in my potential to make a greater contribution to the country. 

On the other hand, I also believe that this was a natural step in my career, having begun my activism within the Labour Party during my time with the Labour Youth Forum together with its then President Alex Agius Saliba. 

Over the last two years I also had the opportunity to lead a government agency in the European funds sector as chief executive officer. This experience helped me better understand how European funds can be used to create new opportunities, improve communities and make long-term investments for the benefit of the country. 

I believe politics should be a means of advancing the just causes of the people and making a positive difference in their lives. 

4. Mention an issue you are particularly passionate about, and why? 

Without a doubt, I have more than one cause close to my heart. Primarily the economy, because I believe it is the foundation of everything. A country with a strong economy can offer more opportunities to its people and continue investing in services that make a difference in citizens’ lives. 

I also have a strong interest in the European sector and foreign affairs. I believe Malta should continue to be a country that looks outward, strengthens its international relations and take full advantage of the opportunities offered by EU membership. 

I would also like to push forward sports at a professional level and among our children and young people. I believe that a stronger sporting culture leads to a healthier society, both physically and mentally. 

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

Sport is undoubtedly my greatest passion. I enjoy following football and being actively involved in it. At present I still contribute to the committee of Żabbar St Patrick FC. 

I really enjoy travelling and exploring different cultures. I believe that when you travel you learn more about people, about the way they think and about new ideas that can help you grow both personally and professionally. I also have a great passion for culinary experiences and I enjoy discovering new foods and traditions wherever I go.