Former Labour MP and party activist Wenzu Mintoff has been sworn in as a judge.

The ceremony took place this morning at the Palace and was presided by President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca in the presence of Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, Chief Justice Silvio Camilleri, Justice Minister Owen Bonnici and Attorney General Peter Grech.

In brief comments during the ceremony, Dr Mintoff said that independence and impartiality would be his credo, adding that each and every case brought before him is not merely a number but represents individuals and their hardships. He promised to respect his vocation to God as a judge, and expressed his gratitude towards his family who always supported him throughout his career.

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said that he understood that there had been criticism for the appointment but was sure that like others before him, Dr Mintoff will rise above his political past and treat the cases he is assigned with integrity. “Dr Mintoff’s integrity is unquestionable.”

Justice Minister Owen Bonnici added that the required procedures for appointment of a judge were taken, Dr Mintoff has all the prerequisites required and the commission of administration of justice was consulted.

Dr Mintoff is a former Labour MP and is known for his vicious attacks against the Nationalist Party and officials, as well as people who are associated with the PN.

He was president of the Labour Party but left the party in 1989 to form Alternattiva Demokratika, only to go back to the Labour fold in later years.

He was until recently editor of the Labour Party weekly Kullhadd, and has outstanding libel cases which are still pending.

Recently he served as a senior legal officer in the commercial and foreign investment field.

The DOI press statement announcing his appointment yesterday included a biographical note which did not mention his Labour Party connections.