The Office of the Prime Minister took the Opposition Leader to task for comments he made in a television programme, during which he commented on Joe G. Galea, who, in agreement with the opposition, was running the Auditor General’s office.
The OPM said Alfred Sant had expressed the feeling that were Mr Galea a really responsible person, he would not continue in the office he had without carrying the full burden of the auditor general.
Dr Sant was quoted saying that the government was in the habit of sending the name of a nominee on the eve of the expiry of a term of office, and expected an answer, while the opposition was taking the time that was necessary to investigate matters.
The OPM said Dr Sant’s accusations were false and unjust. It said Mr Galea’s appointment had expired on 28 July, 2007. More than five weeks earlier, on 19 June, 2007 the Prime Minister consulted by letter with Dr Sant about the appointment of the new auditor general and his deputy. Before that, the Prime Minister had already consulted with Dr Sant verbally.
Dr Sant did not give a reply and two days before the expiry of the term of office, on 26 July, the Prime Minister suggested to Dr Sant that Mr Galea would report for work to run the auditor general’s office until the new appointments were made. Dr Sant had by letter agreed with the proposal.
The OPM said that unfortunately, more than seven months later, the Opposition Leader was still considering, so was not doing his duty for this important office to carry out its functions as it should.
Why, it asked, had Dr Sant criticised a person who had accepted a government request, made in agreement with Dr Sant, to ensure the proper operation of the auditor general’s office?
Why was Dr Sant still considering, seven months later? Why was he blocking the appointment of the auditor general?
These facts, not words, indicate the interest Dr Sant had in transparency in the public administration, the OPM said.
In a counter-statement, Dr Sant said the Prime Minister looks for excuses because he is not capable of controlling corruption.
Dr Gonzi had twice attacked the auditor general, the first time on his analysis of the Foundation for Tomorrow’s Schools’ operations and second on his analysis of the Voice of the Mediterranean controversy, Dr Sant said.