As Election Day looms closer we’ll bring you short interviews with those at the centre of the ballots – the candidates themselves.

The three political parties were sent the same questions to pass on to their respective candidates. To date the Nationalist party has sent no replies.

At 23, San Gwann resident Nikita Zammit Alamango, is reading her B.SC in Politics at the London School of Economics. She is be contesting the General Elections on Districts 9 (Għargħur, Msida, San Ġwann, Swieqi, Madliena, Ta’ Xbiex) and Districts 10 (Gżira, Pembroke, St Julians, Paceville, Sliema ) .

What attracted you to choose a political career?
I am a strong believer in participation. During the run up to the 2008 election I became active in FZL and was a resident participant on Str82dpoint. In 2008 I was elected in the National Youth Council and served as Deputy General Secretary for two years. Later in 2008 I successfully contested the National Executive election within PL and I have been re-elected every time since. In 2009 I founded a youth movement called StandUp to campaign for a ‘Yes’ vote in the divorce referendum. Over the years, though my political involvement I’ve spoken on various issues which mean a lot to me, such as equality, minority rights, IVF and ACTA.

What makes you believe in your party?
It is comforting to know that my main priorities are also fundamental beliefs for the PL. I feel that my values and ideologies are currently best represented by the PL and having been part of the party’s positive transformation over the past years, I am resolute that the party is now well prepared to provide the leadership and good governance our nation needs and wants.

Which party values and policies do you cherish most?
I cherish the basic social democratic principles of PL, which aim to create a socially inclusive society while promoting employment and social justice for all. PL embraces the fundamental human rights as inscribed on the ECHR and strives to give every individual equal opportunity, especially in sectors like education and employment. Moreover, the party believes in strengthening the economy with the aim of sustaining social welfare, and ensuring social justice. The PL truly believes in establishing a new democracy which respects the community, environment, culture and national heritage which serves as social progress in society.

What can you offer to the electorate and if elected are there any particular issues you will campaign for?
If elected I will offer enthusiasm, resilience and determination to change things for the better and to partake in rebuilding a new Malta from a physical point-of-view and also from a social perspective. I will advocate and endorse fresh and sound ideas to ensure that our policies are implemented in a diligent and transparent manner. The protection and strengthening of minority rights is an important cause which I am passionate about. I am against any form of discrimination, be it based on gender, politics or otherwise. On the contrary, I am in favour of a more inclusive society where career progress is strictly based on meritocracy and everyone's talents are properly credited and effectively used.

PL is breaking away from its traditional image, while PL is slowly moving towards a more inclusive attitude / PL has been in the Opposition for years. Is the party ready to govern? Why?
PL has transformed itself into a movement that understands the aspirations and concerns of the electorate. Over the past years the PL has been open to constructive input while reaching out to thousands of people who showed good will. If elected for the coming legislature, the party is committed to implementing the comprehensive roadmap it has so meticulously prepared.

Given your background (career) what policies and bill/s will you lobby for?
In the past, such as during the divorce referendum, I stood up for the most vulnerable in society. Once again I promise to work towards securing equal opportunities for all, to eliminate injustices based on one’s sexuality, economic status, race or beliefs. I will push for policies to strengthen civil rights and accelerate the country’s socio economic growth.

What should the public expect from a new government?
There are several issues that I believe will need to be addressed in the next legislature and this is why I decided to contest the general election. My main priorities are to contribute towards the provision of a better education system that leaves no one behind, a health service system that is sustainable and more efficient. We need to strive to achieve an economic model that is sustainable and at the same time progressive, an economic model whose green credentials are strong so that our environment is better protected for all of us to enjoy.

How do you rate the current electoral campaign and the proposals launched so far?
Unfortunately, over the past few weeks the campaign has gone slightly awry. In my opinion, an electoral campaign should feature proposals and civilised debates on what really matters, free from dirty tricks intended only to mar other political contenders’ reputation.
On a different note, social media platforms have played an important role. Facebook and Twitter have made it easier for both political parties and candidates to get their message across and to reach those members of the electorate who were already part of the online community. It is also a powerful tool for the electorate to make their voice heard, saying what they agree or disagree with. To be frank, news updates are travelling so fast that by the time they appear on traditional media most updates are already outdated for some of us.

‘Fil-Parlament ma jikbrux fjuri’ – How do you plan to be effective in Parliament?
I will speak up for what I believe in and support innovative and well founded proposals. I will ensure that the party in government will meticulously implement policy and ensure we are collectively responsible and accountable. I will use my enthusiasm, resilience and determination to change things for the better, especially in social policy.

Why should people vote in new blood over serving MPs? In a parliamentary structure shrouded in allegations and lack of accountability, why do you want to get involved?
Trust in politicians has been steadily eroded over the past years. As a young politician I sincerely believe we need to work hard to restore trust in the country’s political institutions and our policy makers. It is high time that we all look beyond partisan politics, fully cognisant of the fact that politicians are there to serve the public’s interest, in an efficient, diligent and accountable manner.