Local activist Steve Zammit Lupi has released a statement calling for a host of state reforms to improve Local Councils instead of allowing 16-year-olds to become mayors in Malta.

“If you want to be progressive, enhance the Local Councils’ operations, resources, and funds, as well as eliminate the partisan influence that has plagued and hindered so many,” Zammit Lupi’s social media statement reads.

Yesterday, Malta passed a law making 16-year-olds eligible to become mayors – something that PL, PN, and the Local Councils Association all agree on.

Zammit Lupi split his statement in two, sending different messages to 16-year-olds and elected adult politicians.

“16-year-olds: go out and enjoy life. Involve yourselves in the community, unions, and band clubs,” he told the teens, still fresh from secondary school.

“Go experience volunteering. Travel and discover the world. Experience different cultures, people, and countries. Study and achieve your dreams.”

“Elected adult politicians:” he continued, “you can work to strengthen Local Councils with meaningful reforms that will instill faith in them.”

“If you want to be progressive, enhance the Local Councils’ operations, resources, and funds, as well as eliminate the partisan influence that has plagued and hindered so many.”

“Reduce the number of Council members by half, where the position of Mayor is full-time and that of Councilor is part-time.”

“Let’s raise the standard.”

“Leave teenagers to serve their localities once they’ve become adults and are seriously prepared because the system genuinely needs you to get involved,” his message to adult elected politicians concluded.

Do you think that 16-year-olds should be given the power to run a town?