The Chamber of Advocates has strongly criticised Prime Minister Robert Abela for insinuating in parliament that the courts exhibit bias in favour of the Nationalist Party.

The Chamber expressed deep concern that such comments undermine the essential role of the judiciary and have the potential to erode the rule of law in a democratic nation.

This rebuke from the Chamber of Advocates stemmed from a contentious parliamentary debate regarding the court’s recent decision to officially nullify the hospitals’ deal.

During this debate, Prime Minister Robert Abela suggested that the Opposition seemed primarily interested in subjecting individuals to legal and police procedures.

Abela’s statement triggered an uproar in the chamber, with Opposition Leader Bernard Grech demanding a clarification regarding the implications of the Prime Minister’s words.

Abela dismissed Grech’s request, claiming that Grech had essentially affirmed his initial statement, and later emphasising that the context made it clear which proceedings he was referring to.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Chamber of Advocates did not directly mention Abela or quote his remarks. However, it noted that during the parliamentary debate, “there was a suggestion that the court of justice might exhibit a form of partiality in favour of a local political party.”

“The Chamber of Advocates believes that these comments, made within the framework of parliamentary privilege, undermine the function of the court in a nation that should be governed by the rule of law,” the statement declared.

The Chamber stressed that the separation of powers forms the foundation of a robust democratic society, enabling the executive, legislative, and judicial branches to operate independently. Any assertion that could in any way disrupt this separation is cause for concern, it asserted.

The statement emphasised that every Member of Parliament should respect the independence and integrity of the judiciary, which is vital in a democratic society.

“The Chamber of Advocates firmly believes that Parliament has a responsibility not to undermine trust in the institutions established to protect and uphold the Rule of Law in our country,” it concluded.