Life is elsewhere

The Malta Chronicle is a blog created by Benelux based Maltese liberals with a view to observe, monitor and comment about the upcoming general elections. In this piece, David Friggieri runs through the political media:

..Then you’ve got the Wenzu Mintoffs and the Toni Abelas, the Joe Brincats and the Berta Sullivans. And relaxed Harry. But you can’t be too harsh on him for trying to keep up with the Mangions and the Zammit Dimechs. No NET, No Super One, No Party. Political spiel morning, day and night. (And we haven’t even mentioned Il-Mument and Kullhadd, In-Nazzjon and L-Orizzont. And It-Torca). Politics from the horse’s mouth 24/7.

Independent newspapers turned into campaign billboards for the political class, week in week out. The sound of politicians, ex-politicians and party apparatchiks thinking for you. About EVERYTHING. Anything that’s worth something must go through the political crusher: Eurovision singers and dancers, Coventry city strikers and local businessmen. Political cannibalism at its best. Opinion as propaganda. The constant dull throb of columnist-politicians and columnist-apparatchiks CRYING OUT FOR ATTENTION. I write a column, therefore I am (especially if I put a little friendly photo at the top).

Portrait of the politician as opinion writer. Look at us! We’re everywhere! We care, we will bring about change, we have delivered, the other guys don’t even have a clue, we know what’s good for you, we’re still here and always will be. Sant can’t be trusted (and didn’t kiss the cross). Gonzi’s a liar (and can’t take a joke). The Nationalists are arrogant. Labour can’t govern. This is our message of hope. The Good News. Follow us into the Promised Land. Life as eternal election campaign.