Arnold Cassola: ‘Investigate Robert Abela Over Joseph Muscat’s Free Office Concession’
Independent candidate Arnold Cassola has lodged a formal request with the Standards Commissioner for an investigation into Prime Minister Robert Abela’s alleged grant of free use of public property to former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.
Cassola has expressed concern over the matter and has cited potential violations of the Code of Ethics for Ministers.
In an email forwarded to the Office of the Commissioner for Standards in Public Life, Cassola highlighted an article published by The Shift on May 28th which reports that Abela allowed Muscat to utilise a public office at Sa Maison without a contract.
The article further claims that Muscat declared a substantial turnover of €500,000 from his consultancies in 2020 alone.
Cassola underscored that this alleged arrangement raises questions about the Prime Minister’s compliance with the Code of Ethics for Ministers.
He emphasised the breach of several provisions, including the obligation to be open and transparent in providing information to the public, exercising diligence in the use of public funds, ensuring objectivity in public duties, and being accountable and transparent in the administration of public property.
The independent candidate called on the Standards Commissioner, Judge Emeritus Joseph Azzopardi, to investigate why Abela permitted the free use of public property by an individual who earns a substantial income from consultancies and is not engaged in public service.
Cassola also sought an explanation for the Prime Minister’s decision and actions regarding this matter.
The request for an investigation by Cassola highlights the need for transparency and adherence to ethical standards in governance. The Standards Commissioner’s office is expected to review the allegations and assess whether further action is warranted in this case.
Muscat is once again bathing in the limelight after revelations by the Times of Malta reporting that gross monthly payments of €11,800 started being routed to Muscat via a loss-making exotic bird company owned by casino managing director and shareholder Johann Schembri as part of a consultancy contract worth €141,600 annually.
Both Muscat and Schembri have denied any wrong doing.
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