qualunquismo in Valletta

I can detect a great dose of qualunquismo in objections raised at having parliament transferred to city gate. In the popular psyche parliament is associated with some form of mafia rather than celebrated as the living heart of a democracy.
Why should the rebuilding of parliament as an architectural landmark in Valletta annoy some of us so much? Does our disrespect for parliament contrast with the fact that Malta boasts one of the highest turnout in elections?
Perhaps the negative reaction to having parliament in city gate is a reaction against the occupation of public time and space by politicians of all hues. Probably it is a demonstration of our collective failure to develop a sense of healthy patriotism based on respect for the democratic institutions.
The truth is that our present parliament is dysfunctional lacking all the facilities required by MPs to honour their commitments. Sure the physical structure is only part of the story. For Gonzi's legacy would be greatly enhanced if the rebuilding of parliament is accompanied by the introduction of a truly representative electoral system.
And hopefully we will also get a public library in this central location of Valletta-for books can be the best antidote against qualunquismo and political illiteracy.