In reaction to the judicial protest filed, the ministry for home affairs and national security, led by Minister Mallia, issued a statement yesterday claiming that the ministry never obstructed any complaints put forward by AFM members; however the complaints need comply with the law.
In the next few days the ministry will present a counter protest.
The statement clarifies that commissioned officials have other methods of bringing forward complaints.
The statement goes on to say that the home affairs ministry has provided more tools for complaints to be acknowledged – most complaints have already been addressed and are being rectified accordingly.
Earlier Jason Azzopardi, Nationalist spokesman, expressed concern regarding the judicial protest filed by the ombudsman against minister Manwel Mallia and stated that the government is trying to undermine the law, and disrupt the office of the ombudsman from carrying out its duty.
“The judicial protest is a confirmation that the Labour government is trying to silence any criticism. This does not comply to the European values the Prime Minister claims to hold. The Ombudsman is integral for any European democratic country."
Just over a month ago, Minister Manuel Mallia, together with members of the House Business Committee voted against a motion brought forward by the Opposition – proposing an investigation by the Ombudsman regarding the work being carried out by the justice board within the AFM.
The PN urges the government not to challenge the law and to fully co-operate with the Ombudsman.