”For someone who is naturally quiet and rather introverted, the decision to contest an election was never an easy one. Yet it was something I genuinely wanted to do, and I was determined to give it everything I had.
That meant running a campaign that was anything but quiet. I had the opportunity to meet so many Gozitans, not only in their homes but also at village feasts, exhibitions, and cultural events across the island.
Looking back, the campaign became an adventure that taught me a great deal about the environment I live in, the society around me, and the people who share it. Those lessons will serve me well on my journey as an activist.
Many of you may have come to know me primarily as an environmental activist. Yet this campaign allowed me to speak not only about environmental issues, but also about places that are particularly close to my heart; Fort Chambray, Ggantija, and Calypso’s Cave, as well as the everyday concerns that affect Gozitans: parking at Mgarr, connectivity, and the opportunities available to young people who choose to build their future in Gozo.
I spoke about the island’s autonomy, regional status, and the importance of recognising Gozo’s distinct identity. Gozo as a small island overflowing with potential of its own.
As this chapter of my life comes to a close, I would like to sincerely thank the PN for entrusting me with the opportunity to contest this election under its banner. There are many remarkable people within the party whom I deeply respect and who have taught me values that extend far beyond politics itself.
I am also grateful to have worked alongside fellow candidates such as Frank, Norma, and Beppe, whose encouragement and support never wavered throughout this journey. My heartfelt congratulations go to them on their election.
I would also like to thank my friends, who became colleagues throughout this campaign, as well as the young Gozitans whose voices I sought to amplify through a kind of politics that looked beyond red and blue. Thank you to everyone with whom we exchanged ideas, developed proposals, produced videos, and wrote articles that reflected what young Gozitans want for the future of our island.
Gozo occupies a unique place in Maltese politics. It is not simply another electoral district. It is an island in its own right, with its own needs, challenges, and aspirations. It deserves to be represented as fully as possible and to be valued for everything that it is.
A holistic vision for Gozo is essential if it is to remain the island we cherish: a network of vibrant villages, a place of sustainable progress, and the home we return to with a sense of relief and belonging; because we know we have finally arrived home, we have arrived in Gozo.
I would also like to express my gratitude to Alex and his team for supporting the work and values I believe in for the benefit of Gozo as a whole.
Public service does not begin or end with the result of an election. Whenever the party needs me, with all the values and ideas I stand for, I will always be ready to contribute in whatever way I can.
And, as many of you may already have noticed since yesterday, I have already returned to the voluntary work that has always been a part of who I am.”
Luke Said
Photo: Luke Said