Myriam Spiteri Debono: How The New President Fits In Malta’s Political Landscape
Myriam Spiteri Debono has been approved as the 11th President of the Republic of Malta, but who is she, and what will be expected from her in her new role?
This article is part of a collaboration between Lovin Malta and Spunt.mt.
President’s Profile
Born in 1952, Myriam Spiteri Debono is a notary and will become the first woman from Gozo to be appointed President.
Her political career includes stints in the Labour Party’s National Executive and as President of Labour’s women’s branch. Spiteri Debono had several unsuccessful attempts as a candidate in the general elections. However, in 1996 she was appointed as the first woman Speaker of the House.
Her time as Speaker
Her tenure as Speaker was notably challenging, navigating the turbulent 1998 political crisis and constitutional dilemmas.
Despite these challenges and her political allegiances, she stood true and committed to her role, suggesting a potential for steadfast leadership as President.
A unifying figure
Spiteri Debono is the first president who required a two-thirds majority approval of Parliament. Despite initial concerns that an agreement would not be reached between the government and the Opposition, the two sides agreed that she would make an ideal President and her nomination was unanimously approved by every MP.
The widespread acceptance shows the respect she commands across the political spectrum which bodes well in her fulfilling the role of unifying the nation.
A wise and mature discussion
While the role of the President is mostly ceremonial, the position requires a delicate understanding of politics and constitutional matters, so Spiteri Debono could therefore be seen as a wise choice.
Meanwhile, it was mature for the Opposition to support this appointment without much public debate, avoiding a gridlock on a role that needs to convey unity not division.
Both sides have shown a willingness to rise above partisan politics for the greater good of the country.
Expectations of the new President
Spiteri Debono’s broad support across the political spectrum, and her ability to rise above partisan politics, suggest that she could play a pivotal role in fostering unity. This creates a reasonable expectation that she will serve as a unifying figure.
There have been calls for a national discussion on constitutional reform. Spiteri Debono is suited to facilitating dialogues aimed at strengthening Malta’s democratic institutions and frameworks.
This article is part of a collaboration between Lovin Malta and Spunt.mt
Do you think Myriam Spiteri Debono will make a good President?