The Maltese prime minister primarily referenced rising energy expenses linked to the Middle East conflict, highlighting growing concerns over inflation surges in a nation dependent on imports as reasons to request a fresh mandate.

Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela announced on Monday that early general elections will be held on 30 May, aiming to secure a fourth term for his Labour party.

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In a televised speech, Abela emphasized that Malta «requires a government elected with a new mandate centered exclusively on addressing the country’s challenges amid the current circumstances.»

The Maltese leader pointed mostly to escalating energy prices caused by the conflict in the Middle East, reflecting worries about inflation spikes in an import-dependent economy.

He assured that energy costs would stay «stable» and described his government as a «protective shield» for Malta’s population.

Statistics reveal that Malta’s economy is among Europe’s leading performers, maintaining government debt at 46%, a deficit of 2.2% of GDP, and minimal unemployment rates.

Nonetheless, several industries depend on foreign labour, and tourism continues to be a critical sector, contributing approximately 15 percent to the GDP according to some estimates.

Abela, who previously worked as a lawyer, achieved a decisive win in the 2022 elections. His main opponent will be Nationalist party leader Alex Borg.

Abela’s forerunner, Joseph Muscat, resigned amid accusations of protecting his associates from inquiries related to the 2017 car bomb killing of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, who had accused high-ranking officials in Muscat’s government of corruption.

Since 1966, Malta’s parliament has been composed exclusively of representatives from these two political parties.