WATCH: ‘Even If I Had Details I Wouldn’t Speak About It’ – Muscat Coy On Knowledge Of Masterminds Of Daphne Caruana Galizia Assassination
Prime Minister Joseph Muscat was coy on whether or not he knew the identities of the main suspects who masterminded the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia, insisting that while he is “not privy to investigations”, he would not reveal it publicly, even if he had the details.
He did, however, say that he is briefed on certain aspects of the case when authorities deem it necessary, but it would be unprofessional and “stupid” for him to request any information.
Muscat was speaking to Lovin Malta a day after a Times of Malta report which identified a businessman, a person involved in gambling and another involved in smuggling as the main suspects in the case.
“While I respect journalists for doing their work, stories like yesterday only benefit the suspects who are being followed,” Muscat said.
The story also claimed that the investigators have been aware of the masterminds for over a year, but are yet to bring them into questioning.
Pressed on this, Muscat insisted that he had absolute faith in the police force, later putting his trust that authorities will capture the masterminds, as they had done in the capture of the three men who allegedly carried out the bombing.
Muscat declined to confirm or deny reports of a potential presidential pardon for Vince Muscat, one of the three men charged with carrying out the murder.
“Whenever a presidential pardon has come before me, I have always followed the normal protocol of consulting with authorities and institutions and historic precedence,” he said.
The Prime Minister also faced questions concerning MP Jason Azzopardi’s claims that there was a connection between Muscat calling an early election and the murder of Caruana Galizia.
Muscat rubbished the claims and said he would not pursue a libel suit.
“Whether I sue or don’t sue for libel I am criticised,” he said.