Parliamentary elections began in Malta on Saturday as voters headed to the polls for a snap election. Voting opened in Valletta, with the nation's citizens casting their ballots to determine the future of the government.
Opinion polls suggest that Prime Minister Robert Abela and the ruling Labour Party are on course to secure a record-breaking fourth term. The party is tipped to win on a platform of economic stability and 4% GDP growth, although the reelection takes place in the shadow of the Middle East crisis.
Economic issues are expected to dominate this year's election, with rising rents and infrastructure at the forefront of debates. Despite the projected victory, there are ongoing concerns regarding corruption and over-construction in the tiny Mediterranean nation.
Preliminary results from the parliamentary elections are expected on Sunday afternoon.