Former Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, alongside several current and former officials, finds himself entangled in a corruption scandal involving the sale of public hospitals to a private entity. This development marks the first instance of criminal charges being levied against a former prime minister in Malta, underscoring the gravity of the allegations.
Controversial Hospital Deal Raises Suspicions
The scandal revolves around a contentious agreement struck in 2015 between Malta’s government and a private company, Vitals Global Healthcare (VGH) Ltd, to revamp and manage three public hospitals. Questions arose regarding the legitimacy of the contract award process, with auditors criticizing the government’s inadequate due diligence on VGH’s qualifications and experience in the healthcare sector.
Judicial Scrutiny Uncovers Collusion
A civil court ruling in February 2023 nullified the hospital deal, citing evidence of fraud before, during, and after VGH’s acquisition of the contract, as well as collusion between the government and involved companies. Despite subsequent appeals, the court affirmed the contract’s annulment, highlighting systemic failures in safeguarding national interests and upholding transparency.
Investigation Unveils Allegations of Wrongdoing
The criminal charges, stemming from an investigation initiated by the rule of law organization Repubblika, allege a range of offenses, including promoting and organizing a criminal organization and bribery. Among those implicated alongside Muscat are his former chief of staff, Keith Schembri, and a prominent minister from his administration, Konrad Mizzi.
Political Backlash and Criticism
In the aftermath of the scandal, Malta’s current Prime Minister, Robert Abela, faces scrutiny for his response, particularly regarding his defense of Muscat and challenges to the judiciary’s integrity. Critics accuse Abela of politicizing the judiciary and undermining the rule of law, further complicating the fallout from the corruption scandal and intensifying public discontent.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Euronews
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