Activist group il-Kollettiv has welcomed a series of Parliamentary reform proposals put forward separately by Momentum and the Chamber of Commerce, describing them as necessary steps toward a more transparent and accountable political system.

“Whilst acknowledging the need for at least a third political representation in Parliament, we agree in principle with both a reduction in MPs and the number of electoral districts,” said il-Kollettiv President Jeanette Borg.

“The current state of affairs allows politicians to exert significant control over their electoral districts, often drowning out the voices of the electorate. The culture of nepotism stems from the fragmentation of regions into electoral districts, while political patronage has contributed to the erosion of their identities.”

Il-Kollettiv also backed the Chamber of Commerce’s call for full-time politicians with fair remuneration, but stressed that CEOs of government agencies should also be held to similar standards.

“Across various sectors of public administration, authorities and CEOs wield more power than Ministries and Ministers. The proliferation of entities and bodies has increased bureaucracy for citizens and residents, often creating competency gaps and loopholes.”

“Not only should CEO salaries be regulated, but the number of government authorities should be reduced and their functions consolidated to cut down on wasted public resources, red tape, and corruption.”

The group also called for the removal of ‘positions of trust’, arguing that these appointments are often abused and have contributed to the weakening of the civil service.

On the topic of gender quotas, il-Kollettiv stated that while they serve as a mathematical corrective mechanism, they do little to change the political culture. 

Instead of scrapping them, the group believes quotas should be introduced within political parties’ own candidate lists, alongside a reform of the Electoral Commission to ensure adequate representation of women in political decision-making.

“It is encouraging to see that more people are recognising the urgent need for reform at the highest levels,” Borg concluded.

“Malta cannot expect to be governed in a serious manner as long as the ruling political class remains unaccountable and above public scrutiny.”

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