A sweeping statement is certainly not fit here, but the disenchantment amongst many is growing fast. Our political class’ credentials are treading on very thin ice. The level of accountability adopted is a farce, transparency has become a sick joke and political honesty has been left by the wayside. These values are now shelved and archived for posterity. It is sad that a sizeable number within our political class consider these values as ethical standards belonging to the past.Their actions amply demonstrate this. And during these past weeks, the political class continued to fall deeper into the abyss.
Abuse of power and unbecoming political behavior may cause new political formations to take root. These may take various forms, some of which may thrive on lawlessness. Malta is no exception and what have and is taking place in other European countries may well take place here. Far right-wingers, like far left-wingers, know no boundaries. The end justifies the means in their vicious political ploys. Although it would be wrong for our society to take on the spur of the moment actions, our political class should not push our society into tight corners.
By and large, during the past fifty years, we had center-left governments with spikes of irrational, politically-charged decisions which have dented our national credibility and pride. And yet we sailed gallantly on. Allegations of political corruption and arrogance were hurled, and still are, at various persons in the political arena. These have soured and tarnished the sterling work of others in the same class.
Political party leaders must remain vigilant and in total control of their party, and should not be reluctant to take whatever decision is necessary for the good of the land even if a decision of this sort would come at a cost for the party concerned. Difficult as it may be, this is necessary.
The leader of the Opposition Dr Simon Busuttil, who as yet have to be tried on the national driving seat, without hesitation called for the suspension from the PN of the two former Nationalist ministers Michael Falzon and Ninu Zammit, who both failed in the transparency and accountability tests. The two gentlemen had secret bank accounts.
If only this standard could be emulated by Prime Minister Dr Joseph Muscat, our political class would stand to gain lost credibility.
In no particular order, Karmenu Abela, Justyne Caruana, Helena Dalli and Manuel Mallia have all failed various political tests. There are others on both sides of the coin.It seems that some of these honorable ladies and gentlemen think that they can take us for a ride and continue to enjoy our respect. Unfortunately, they are putting the whole political class into jeopardy. Persons holding the title of honorable should think twice before they act.
A quick google search could have provided Karmenu Abela with a list of recording devices which are available on the market at very cheap prices. Lapel pins, pens,sun glasses,and so many other electronic devices are but a few. I am certain that, out of respect, most would not make use of their mobile phone during a meeting with the minister unless it is a matter of urgency.
The same goes for Justyne Caruana. It is being alleged that she has threatened workers during a meeting. This behavior is highly irregular and abusive. The only way forward is through meaningful dialogue. There is no other way. Motivating the troops is essential to achieve success for the benefits of the elderly and others in her care. Threatening workers is certainly counterproductive.
Manuel Mallia had to be relieved of his ministerial duties following an alleged shooting incident by his driver as people mounted pressure on the Prime Minister. A good number of honorable Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries suffered a bout of amnesia when declaring their assets in Parliament. MEPA recently turned down a request to sanction illegal developments in a farmhouse owned by Helena Dalli.
These incidents are signs which if not stamped out would become the order of the day.Politicians of whatever creed should be held accountable for their actions. If the threshold of transparency and accountability continues to fall any lower, then I would not be surprised if people become disenchanted and shift their attention elsewhere.
The political class has succumbed to the poorest levels of transparency and accountability in the Café Premier deal. Anyone for coffee?
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