Repubblika files formal complaint to Standards Commissioner over sworn allegations concerning PM

Repubblika said Wednesday it has filed a formal complaint with the Commissioner for Standards in Public Life requesting an investigation into serious allegations made under oath by Judge Lawrence Mintoff regarding the conduct of Prime Minister Robert Abela.The complaint, dated 25 February 2026, calls for the examination of allegations including alleged pressure on a court employee, the use of parliamentary questions in a context of personal financial interest, private communications with a sitting judge concerning judicial appointments, and political considerations in relation to the appointment of the Chief Justice.Repubblika makes no determination of guilt but maintains that allegations of this nature, made under oath by a member of the judiciary, require immediate and independent scrutiny, the NGO said Wednesday.The purpose of the complaint is to safeguard public trust in institutions and the independence of the judiciary, while the process for appointing the Chief Justice remains ongoing, it said.The complaint was filed in the wake of a letter sent by sitting judge Lawrence (Wenzu) Mintoff in which he accused Prime Minister Robert Abela of prioritising money and political calculation over judicial independence.The dispute centres on the succession to Chief Justice Mark Chetcuti, who recently turned 68 and must retire. Although the Nationalist Party proposed Mintoff among four potential nominees, the Labour government has backed other candidates.
2026-02-25 07:40:00