The power of incumbency as interpreted by political elites in Malta : a sociological analysis

Abstract

This sociological study explores the perception of political elites; ranging from present and former politicians to opinionists and academics; on the subject of the power of incumbency in Malta. Their interpretation is reported and analyzed through qualitative research methods and measured up against the theory prose. Beneath a background of state theories, the incumbency element is highlighted in relation to its understanding, conception, effects and its disruption or moderation. Observed evidence of the Maltese cases emerges in the voices of the fourteen political elites who feature their diverse and political knowledge on the research questions. Sociological theories related to state and party power, social networks and influences, the benefactors and the underprivileged in the game, the attached consequences, and suggested resolutions are all espoused and applied to the Maltese social and cultural set of events in relation to the power of incumbency exercise. The research results show that, overall, the existence of the power of incumbency is acknowledged; yet certain specific illustrations reflect the elite's bias judgment. However, the general verdicts show how the power of incumbency is assigned to interests and abuses, and is a result of several deficiencies. Thus, room for improvements in our political system is not a myth, even if this incumbency strategy will still be that key in the government's 'good hands'. Altogether, the research conclusions recapitulate that eventually, it depends on how you are going to look at the incumbency 'policy'. Looking at various real Maltese situations as subjectively captured and interpreted from different theorists and political elites will further offer receipt of the power of incumbency temperament.