Conveniently, Robert Abelaplans not to plan

The latest statements by Robert Abela on planning reform and a possible review of Local Plans clearly confirm what the Partit Nazzjonalista has been insisting from the outset: that while in government, the Labour Party deliberately chose not to plan, acting instead according to the political convenience of the moment.

Despite Robert Abela now attempting to portray himself as someone seeking consensus and agreement, everyone remembers what happened just a few months ago, when the Government tabled planning law amendments that were rushed, lacked consultation, and significantly reduced citizens’ rights and the legal safeguards that protect them.

The Partit Nazzjonalista had already stated that these proposals amounted to a direct attack on the planning system, weakening public trust while opening the door to abuse and illegality. Now, without any sense of accountability, and in the context of an electoral campaign, Robert Abela is claiming that he has moved forward with NGOs that supposedly agree with him on a number of points, prompting NGOs themselves to issue a statement contradicting him.

After attempting in July last year to push through these laws in haste, it is now clear that Robert Abela did not change direction out of conviction but because he was forced to yield to public and political pressure. Once again, the Labour Party is showing that it has no plan for planning, reacting instead of leading with vision and responsibility.

At the same time, environmental organisations responded categorically, stating that they do not agree with the proposed reform and warning that the changes were dangerous and unacceptable. They also expressed serious concern that any review of Local Plans could be used to weaken existing protections, including in Outside Development Zones (ODZ), and that this could be done without proper studies or impact assessments, despite the fact that such changes could affect up to half a million people.

The Partit Nazzjonalista continues to insist that any reform in the planning sector must be based on sound scientific evidence, including serious studies such as carrying capacity assessments, and must be carried out through a transparent and participatory process involving all communities. Without these principles, any changes risk being made against the public interest and in favour of particular interests.

The Partit Nazzjonalista remains consistent in its position that meaningful reform must be holistic, fair and transparent, placing people and the environment at the centre of the planning system. This is not merely a technical issue, but a fundamental question of trust in the governance of the country.

Robert Abela, who attempted to push through these so-called reforms without any consultation, cannot now claim to lead a credible reform process. The people deserve better than an approach driven by convenience and U-turns.

This is why the Partit Nazzjonalista remains committed to defending communities and the environment, while putting forward genuine reform that restores trust in the planning system and delivers a fresh start for our country.

04.05.2026