Franco Debono Calls For Stronger Enforcement Of Party Financing Law
Lawyer and former MP Franco Debono has urged politicians to prioritise the enforcement of Malta’s Party Financing Law, describing it as the country’s most important anti-corruption safeguard.
In a detailed Facebook post, Debono highlighted that he first presented the law while in Parliament, after decades of research into the subject. He described the legislation as a “solid structure” that ensures transparency and accountability in political party funding, noting that it had been approved unanimously by Parliament. However, he stressed that the law is currently “dormant” due to the need to replace its enforcing body, an issue he said should be addressed immediately.
Debono also weighed in on the controversial subject of state funding for political parties. He argued that public financing should not be considered until parties are fully compliant with the existing law, warning that taxpayers must be assured their money would be managed responsibly and transparently.
He further underlined that donations, whether from individuals or businesses, are a legitimate form of political participation, provided they are subject to clear rules and thresholds. “Abuse is not stopped by prohibition but by regulation,” he wrote.
Turning to the Nationalist Party, Debono cautioned that calling for state funding would be a “strategic mistake,” opening the party to criticism that it was seeking taxpayer help to cover its debts. Instead, he said the PN should show leadership by paying off its obligations, broadening its support base, and using its recovery as an example to struggling businesses.
Debono concluded by calling on both major parties to commit to the rigorous enforcement of the Party Financing Law, which he believes is essential for creating a true “level playing field” in Maltese politics.
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