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Robert Abela, Bernard Grech in court as government intervenes in hospitals case
Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech attended the initial court hearing on Monday
regarding the Opposition’s case aimed at recovering funds allegedly “defrauded” by Steward Healthcare in the hospitals’ deal. Grech and Nationalist MP Adrian Delia had initiated the legal action last year, urging the court to compel the State Advocate to take action against current and former government officials involved in the privatisation deal. The government later expressed its intention to intervene in the case filed by the Opposition against the State Advocate over perceived inaction in fund recovery. Lawyers for Grech and Delia sought authorisation to present Delia’s affidavit promptly, citing urgency, but the State Advocate objected, leading to the court’s decision to address legal procedures first. The case was deferred to the following Monday for oral submissions by all parties involved. (Times of Malta)
Malta fails assessment of its anti-corruption measures: Malta has received criticism for being “not in sufficient compliance” with anti-corruption recommendations aimed at enhancing the fight against criminal activities and raising standards in public life. The compliance report, adopted by the Council of Europe’s assembly in December, is yet to be authorised for publication by the Maltese government. The Group of States Against Corruption (GRECO), the Council of Europe’s anti-corruption body, had
advised Malta to enact new laws, including the use of wiretaps and other special investigative measures, to aid in prosecuting corruption cases. Despite being given an 18-month deadline in May 2022 to align with the recommendations, questions directed to the Office of the Prime Minister and the Justice Ministry remain unanswered.
Red Sea shipping crisis – Houthi attacks drive prices up, Chamber of SMEs says: Malta is feeling the economic impact of rising inflation due to increased attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, according to the Chamber of SMEs. The Bab el-Mandab Strait, a crucial route for ships, has become more challenging after the Israel-Hamas conflict. In response, major shipping companies like the Mediterranean Shipping Company and Maersk have rerouted vessels around the Cape of Good Hope in
South Africa, leading to higher shipping costs, increased insurance premiums, and supply chain delays.
Morning Briefing
PM makes no direct reference to Cabinet reshuffle in party activity
PM Robert Abela made no reference of his unexpected cabinet reshuffle in an activity for PL supporters on Sunday, but expressed appreciation for his colleagues, particularly highlighting Chris Fearne, Malta’s nominee for EU commissioner. He also had words of praise for his predecessor, Joseph Muscat. Abela went on to laud government’s achievements during his four years as Prime Minister. He referred to PL’s socialist roots, an increase in children’s benefits, wages and allowances. He said that while there was always room for improvement, he will never speak negatively about Malta. (Times of Malta)
PN leader brands changes as “pseudo-reshuffle”
Nationalist Party leader Bernard Grech defined the shifts in Ministerial responsibilities as a “preudo-reshuffle”, which was primarily attributed to Chris Fearne no longer occupying his former Cabinet position. Dr Grech expressed particular concern about the expanded Cabinet, foreseeing increased expenses and a larger cohort of trusted individuals, ultimately to be covered by the nation and its people. During an interview on NET FM, the PN Leader referenced the Vitals/Steward hospital case, highlighting how the government initially granted the hospitals at no cost to the supposed investors before subsequently allocating €400 million to these companies. (TVM)
Aaron Farrugia says he will continue his work as an MP after Ministerial demotion
Former Minister Aaron Farrugia said his work will continue as an MP, after his surprise demotion on Saturday. Farugia, who served as Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projected, wrote on his Facebook page that: “I am proud that in my good and bad, I served the country as a Minister in the best way I could, in the same way that I served my previous portfolios prior to this one.” Farrugia wished his colleagues, and particularly his successor Chris Bonett, the best of luck following his Cabinet departure. With respect to newly sworn in Transport Minister Chris Bonett, Farrugia said that he has “no doubt that he shall take on the role with the greatest competence.” (The Malta Indwependent)
