Voting is underway in Malta's snap parliamentary election, with polls suggesting Prime Minister Robert Abela's Labour Party is on track for a fourth consecutive term. Over 341,000 residents of the EU's smallest and most densely populated nation are eligible to cast ballots, with preliminary results expected Sunday.

Abela, who called the early election citing global concerns over the Iran war, has campaigned on economic stability and competence, promising to be 'a captain as strong as steel.' However, his government faces criticism over rising energy costs, as Malta imports nearly all its energy and has been hit by Middle East crisis-related price hikes.

The main opposition candidate, Alex Borg of the Nationalist Party, is a 30-year-old lawyer and former 'Mr World Malta' titleholder. Borg has attacked the government over a 'chaotic' healthcare system and blackouts during scorching heat, positioning himself as a youthful alternative. If elected, he would become the country's youngest leader.

The election was originally scheduled for early next year, but Abela's decision to move it forward has been seen as an attempt to capitalize on his perceived strength. The campaign has been dominated by energy subsidies, with the government allocating an extra €250 million on top of the €150 million already budgeted for 2026.

Both candidates held final rallies on Thursday. Abela emphasized his economic record, while Borg rallied against 'a country in chaos.' The outcome will determine whether Malta continues its Labour-led path or shifts to a younger, conservative leadership.

Source: www.dw.com