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

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

An ex-Police Inspector and present M’Scala mayor,  Mario Calleja, 56 , will be contesting the General Elections on District 5 ( M`Xlokk, B` Bugia, Zurrieq, Safi, Qrendi, Kirkop and Mqabba) and subsequently the Local Council Elections for the locality of M’Scala.

What attracted you to choose a political career?

Just to serve those in need.

What makes you believe in your party?

PL believes in national unity and wants to destroy old politics.

Which party values and policies do you cherish most?

Honesty is the best policy.

What can you offer to the electorate and if elected are there any particular issues you will campaign for?

I want to be there for the people and not the people there for me.

PL is breaking away from its traditional image, while PN is slowly moving towards a more inclusive attitude. What are your views on both?

We cannot govern with old politics. All those who have something to offer are called to be on board.

Given your background (career) what policies and bill/s will you lobby for?

Better management of the Police Force. The Police are there to prevent crimes and should do so. Also a better service in the tourist sector and more autonomy for local councils with mayors being either full timers or pensioners. People need to be listened to.

What should the public expect from a new government?

Transparency and good governance.

How do you rate the current electoral campaign and the proposals launched?

PL is delivering strong proposals on every sector. PN was not even prepared and its only interest is to keep power.

‘Fil-Parlament ma jikbrux fjuri’ – How do you plan to be effective in Parliament?

Agreed:  I want to be there and deliver people`s complaints and suggestions. Moreover I want to be part of discussions regarding new laws.

PL has been in the Opposition for years. Is the party ready to govern? Why?

PL is ready to govern because it is led by an honest leader. Joseph Muscat apart from an intelligent person and EU experienced he is a go getter and challenger. So far he had shown his teeth from the opposition side so one can imagine what he’ll do when in power. I have great trust in him and definitely will support him and his ideas.

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?

I have been a mayor for the last seven years and have always done my work in office from the best of my ability. I never think of the past and look for a better future. Only PL can bring this change.