Updated 1145
Judge Mintoff Accuses PM Abela of Bias Over Chief Justice Post: Judge Lawrence Mintoff has accused Prime Minister Robert Abela of prejudice in a letter to the Cabinet Secretary over the stalled chief justice appointment. Mintoff claims Abela refused to nominate any of four Opposition-backed judges to avoid appearing to concede to the Opposition and to prevent boosting PN MP Alex Borg, preferring to leave the decision until after the election. Mintoff has asked the PM to abstain from the selection process. (Maltatoday)
Maltese More Optimistic About EU Than Malta, Parlemeter Finds: An EU Parlemeter survey shows Maltese respondents are more optimistic about the EU’s future (70%) than Malta’s (65%), and more positive than the EU average. While 85% feel optimistic about their family’s future, over half are pessimistic about the world. Support for EU unity is overwhelming: 96% want greater cooperation and 71% say Malta’s EU membership has been positive. Inflation tops Maltese priorities for the European Parliament (40%), followed by public health, climate and migration. Defence is seen as key to strengthening the EU globally, though fewer prioritise it legislatively. Security, migration and cyber threats rank among top concerns. (The Malta Independent)
Cannabis Clubs Face Tiered Stock Caps and Tougher €50,000 Penalties Under New Rules: New regulations have introduced tiered stock limits for cannabis associations based on membership size. Clubs with over 350 members may now hold up to 3.5kg, those with 250–350 members 2.45kg, and associations with 100–250 members 1.75kg. Clubs with up to 100 members are capped at 700g, while the smallest, up to 50 members, are limited to 350g. Previously, all clubs were restricted to 500g. The amendments also clarify due diligence and record-keeping rules and significantly raise maximum penalties for breaches from €10,000 to €50,000 or twice the revenue generated from the offence. (Maltatoday)
Government to Allocate Pembroke Land for Valletta FC Sports Campus: The Government will ask Parliament to allocate Pembroke land, valued at €75–100 million and previously earmarked for offices and residences, for sporting and community use. Prime Minister Robert Abela said the project will provide Valletta FC with a long-awaited home, including a full-size pitch, 5-a-side ground, and academy facilities within a planned sports campus. Part of the site will also serve Swieqi United and host Malta’s first dedicated futsal facility, alongside a 4,500sqm public open space. Sports Minister Clifton Grima confirmed the land transfer process to Sport Malta is underway. (The Malta Independent)
Morning Briefing
Malta Plans On-the-Spot Fines to Curb Unruly Tourist Behaviour
Government is considering introducing on-the-spot fines for tourists engaging in antisocial acts such as littering, excessive noise or wearing swimwear away from beaches. The move aims to promote respectful tourism and reduce disorderly behaviour in hotspots like Paceville and Sliema. Citing similar measures in Spain and Italy, Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri said the proposal seeks to ensure visitors enjoy Malta responsibly while deterring offences that harm the local community. The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association welcomed the proposal, saying the measure reflected a long-standing MHRA recommendation to strengthen enforcement, protect community well-being, and safeguard Malta’s reputation. (Times of Malta)
Survey Reveals Maltese Adults Show Strong Saving Habits but Weak Investment Knowledge
A national survey conducted by the MFSA and OECD has found that Malta’s financial literacy is slightly above the OECD average, driven by strong saving and budgeting tendencies. However, gaps remain in investment knowledge and participation. Many Maltese prefer real estate or avoid investing altogether due to risk concerns and limited understanding of complex financial instruments like bonds. The study highlights the need for targeted financial education, particularly among lower-income groups, to improve investment confidence and support smarter financial planning for retirement. (The Malta Independent)
AUM Addresses Concerns Over Boat Facility Dispute, Calls for Calm and Respect
The American University of Malta has issued a statement acknowledging ongoing tensions over alleged unauthorised boat facilities near its site. The university affirmed its commitment to honouring legal obligations agreed with the government while seeking a balanced solution that respects the interests of boat owners, local residents, and all stakeholders. AUM pledged transparency, urging patience until a formal mechanism is established to resolve the matter. It also called for respectful dialogue and the protection of individuals’ privacy as discussions progress. (Newsbook)
