Wave of PN and Labour MPs step aside ahead of 2026 Election

A significant number of sitting MPs from both the Nationalist Party (PN) and the Labour Party (PL) have confirmed they will not be contesting the upcoming 2026 Maltese general election, signalling a major transition in Malta’s political landscape.

According to the latest information, at least 11 MPs elected in 2022 will not seek re-election, reflecting a broader reshaping of both parties ahead of the vote.

The Nationalist Party (PN) is heading into the 2026 general election with a significantly reshaped line-up, as a notable number of sitting MPs have confirmed they will not be contesting—marking one of the most substantial transitions within the party in recent years.

Among the departures is veteran MP Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici, who is stepping down after a parliamentary career spanning decades. A former minister and long-standing figure within the party, his exit symbolises the closing of a political chapter tied closely to the PN’s past administrations. Mifsud Bonnici is also the last remaining family member who has a link to ‘Il Gross’, a famous Nationalist MP of the past.

He is joined by former deputy leader David Agius, another experienced parliamentarian whose decision to step aside removes a key figure with deep organisational and electoral experience. Similarly, Claudette Buttigieg, known for her work in social policy and communications, will not be seeking re-election.

Other MPs opting out include Ryan Callus, Ivan J. Bartolo, Robert Cutajar, Chris Said, and Karol Aquilina—a mix of seasoned MPs and relatively younger figures who have played active roles in opposition work over the past legislature.

There have also been rumours that Mario DeMarco will not be contesting, but so far there has not been any declaration from the former Tourism Minister.

 

Labour exodus continues

Among the most prominent Labour figures not contesting is veteran MP Chris Agius, who is retiring after a political career spanning nearly 30 years. First elected in 1996, Agius served in multiple roles, including junior ministerial positions, and remained a consistent presence on Labour’s benches across seven consecutive elections.

Another major departure is Edward Zammit Lewis, who is ending a long career that included 13 years as an MP and eight years in Cabinet. He has indicated he will now return to his legal profession, marking the end of a significant ministerial tenure.

Former minister Clayton Bartolo has also confirmed he will not contest the election. His decision follows a turbulent period after resigning from government and later serving as an independent MP, citing concerns about future attacks against him and his family.

Other Labour MPs who will not be contesting include:

• Aaron Farrugia (a former Minister who was not re-appointed following a reshuffle)
• Michael Farrugia (embroiled in controversy over high rise limits during his tenure as Planning Minister)
• Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi (also a former Planning Minister)

Several of these figures held ministerial or parliamentary secretary roles in recent years, making their exit particularly significant for Labour’s governing structure.

There have also been rumours that Chris Fearne may not be submitting his nomination

The rise and fall of Roderick Galdes

Perhaps the highest profile casualty for this election is Roderick Galdes who has confirmed that he will not contest re-election. Galdes has been a key figure within the Labour Party (PL), particularly recognised for his work in housing and social policy during his time in government.

First elected to Parliament in 2004, Galdes built a steady political career and rose to prominence when he was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Social Accommodation in 2017. He later served as Minister responsible for social and affordable housing, a portfolio that placed him at the centre of efforts to address Malta’s growing housing challenges.

During his tenure, Galdes oversaw a number of initiatives aimed at expanding social housing and assisting low-income families and first-time buyers. Several housing projects were launched under his watch, alongside reforms intended to improve access and modernise the system.

However, his time in office came to an abrupt end when he was forced to resign from his ministerial role. The resignation followed mounting pressure and controversy linked to issues within his portfolio, reflecting the broader scrutiny faced by government officials in recent years.

Despite stepping down from Cabinet, Galdes remained an MP and continued to play a role within the Labour Party, although with a significantly lower public profile.