Employer Bodies Call for an Urgent MCESD Meeting

Serious concerns about Prime Minister statements and their potential repercussions on the country’s stability

The Malta Chamber of SMEs, The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, as well as the The Malta Employers’ Association stated that the current situation regarding the magisterial enquiry on the Vitals Hospitals deal poses a serious risk to economic stability and Malta’s international reputation.

The attacks on the judiciary strike at the heart of Malta’s democratic credentials and challenge basic principles of governance. Malta, having already suffered through being grey-listed, cannot afford further reputational damage. Branding individuals, organizations, and institutions as ‘the establishment’ or enemies of the state does not contribute to the cause of justice.

The perilous nature of the situation is underscored by the potential for destructive alienation and tension within society, posing significant threats to social and economic well-being, and weakening the rule of law. In light of these challenges, there is an urgent need to promote public trust in the justice system and apply all legal remedies to ensure that the innocent are acquitted and the guilty are held accountable.

The employer bodies stress the importance of transparency and accountability in upholding the integrity of our institutions and the rule of law. It is imperative that the findings of the inquiry are not subject to speculative conjectures that undermine trust in judicial institutions. Any criminal proceedings warranted, should happen without any political interference or threats to the judiciary. The judicial process must be allowed to take its course. Any attempts to undermine the integrity of the inquiry only serve to erode public trust in the institutions and compromise Government’s future standing.

In light of these pressing concerns, the employer bodies call for prompt and responsible action to safeguard democracy and stability in Malta. An urgent meeting of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD) is imperative to address these critical issues and provide the required reassurance that the national interest will not be undermined by partisan agendas.