Updated 1100
PM rules out early election
Prime Minister Robert Abela has firmly dismissed the possibility of an early general election, ending speculation about a potential vote as soon as this spring, two years ahead of the scheduled end of the legislative term. “The election will take place in 2027, at the right time and moment,” Abela stated when questioned outside Parliament. Referring to the last general election held in 2022 during the term’s fifth year, Abela confirmed, “The plan is to follow the same approach this time.” He added that the government was entrusted with the strongest-ever electoral mandate in 2022 and emphasised the need to focus on delivering its commitments. “There is still a significant amount of work to be completed this term to fulfil our electoral promises,” he said. Speculation about an early election has intensified in recent weeks, with concerns about internal party divisions and fears of further erosion of support in the months ahead fuelling the rumours. (Times of Malta)
Government misses deadline to implement lobby register
The government has failed to meet its self-imposed deadline to implement a package of reforms aimed at enhancing transparency by the end of 2024, potentially including the establishment of a lobbying register. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s office reaffirmed the commitment to introducing “additional reforms” to bolster accountability and transparency but did not confirm whether this would encompass the creation of a transparency register. It said that Government remained committed to “further enhancing accountability and promoting transparency across all institutions” Such a register would mandate ministers to document their meetings with lobbyists in an official, publicly accessible record. (Maltatoday)
Morning Briefing
All domestic violence victims should undergo risk assessment – Ghirxi inquiry
An inquiry into the murder of Nicolette Ghirxi has recommended that all individuals reporting domestic violence undergo a standard risk assessment. While the option to opt out should remain available, the assessment should otherwise be a mandatory procedure, the report stated. This recommendation is one of 12 made by retired judge Lawrence Quintano, whose findings were published on Monday by the Social Policy Ministry. The inquiry, launched in August to examine the support Ghirxi received before her death, called for a comprehensive strategy. It proposed increasing the number of magistrates assigned to domestic violence cases and introducing specialised lessons in schools to address the issue. Ghirxi, 48, was found stabbed to death in her Swatar apartment on August 12, allegedly killed by her former partner, Edward Johnston. (Maltatoday)
HMPV virus not a cause for alarm – Gauci
The Superintendent of Public Health, Prof. Charmaine Gauci, emphasised that “there is no cause for alarm” about the emergence of another pandemic, as long as the public takes the necessary precautions, including handwashing and wearing masks when needed. She addressed the issue in light of recent reports of an increase in respiratory illnesses in China, including Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a situation that has raised global concerns and prompted countries around the world to closely monitor developments. HMPV, which causes symptoms similar to influenza and COVID-19, is reported to have created significant challenges in hospitals and crematoriums in parts of China. (Newsbook)
NSO reports €451m surplus in international transactions
The National Statistics Office reported that Malta recorded a surplus of €451.2 million in Economic and International Transactions during the third quarter of last year. This represents a decline compared to the €584 million surplus registered in the same period the previous year. According to the NSO, the surplus was primarily driven by a stronger balance in the services account (€1,874 million) and a secondary income balance of €24.5 million. The report also highlighted that the account benefited from €589.5 million in assets, largely stemming from investments, which surpassed €3,368 million. (TVM)
PN says PM seeking immunity for corrupt politicians and their accomplices
The Nationalist Party criticised Prime Minister Robert Abela on Monday, accusing him of “seeking immunity for corrupt politicians and their accomplices.” The Opposition’s remarks followed news that the government plans to shield civil service and government entity workers from being sued in their personal capacity. On Sunday, Abela stated he would not tolerate the misuse of the legal system, which he claimed was causing “innocent people to endure the ordeal of court proceedings” for years before being acquitted. It remains unclear whether the proposed legislative changes will apply retroactively to those already facing charges. Several permanent secretaries are currently facing legal proceedings related to their involvement in the Vitals Hospitals deal. (Times of Malta)
