Former minister Konrad Mizzi has refused to testify at the public inquiry looking into the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, describing the proceedings there as a “charade”.

“This inquiry has deviated from its original purpose, and I am concerned that it is being used to pursue a purely political agenda,” Mizzi said. “This was meant to be an inquiry into a heinous crime; the murder of a journalist. No allegations were ever made about me in this context.”

“It does not make sense for me to testify in this public inquiry in front of two prominent Nationalist party politicians [a reference to Jason Azzopardi and Therese Comodini Cachia, the lawyers of the Caruana Galizia family].”

“It is clear that their sole aim is to turn this into a Star Chamber, and trash the highly successful record of our Government. I understand the purpose, but will not be playing along with the charade.”

“Whilst welcoming any lawful investigation, I stress that this must be done in full compliance with the law. As a number of investigations are currently underway by various institutions, I have no choice but to wait for full disclosure by these institutions, in order for me to clear my name. I realise that some will have little sympathy, but I hope they will understand nevertheless that I am not duty-bound to prostate myself in front of my political assassins.”   

As Energy Minister, Mizzi spearheaded the Electrogas power station deal, which police suspect could have been a motive behind the journalist’s murder. Following the Montenegro wind farm scandal revelations last June, Mizzi was forced out of the Labour Party but stayed in Parliament as an independent MP.