The Malta Law Students' Society (GħSL) "unequivocally denounces the Prime Minister's recent statements, categorically condemning his unwarranted attacks on the judiciary."

Prime Minister Robert Abela on Monday defended his insinuation that it would be "political terrorism" if an inquiry into the Vitals hospitals privatisation deal has truly been concluded now, weeks before an election.

The Prime Minister, in his remarks on Monday, "raised suspicions about the Inquiring Magistrate investigating the concession of three hospitals, insinuating that the timing of the inquiry's conclusions is orchestrated to disrupt the European Parliament and Local Councils elections, casting doubts on the Magistrate's impartiality. The Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct state that: 'A judiciary of undisputed integrity is the bedrock institution essential for ensuring compliance with democracy and the rule of law'."

"These insinuations are a disingenuous attempt to dismay public confidence in the Magistrate's findings, without any substantial evidence," the society said.

 

"We compel the Prime Minister to substantiate these serious claims against a member of the judiciary in the proper forum before the Commission for the Administration of Justice and not to smear the Magistrate's name and work for political convenience. The Prime Minister is once again abusing the fact that members of the Judiciary cannot reply to comments and attacks lodged against them."

GħSL strongly condemns any attempt to undermine the proper administration of justice. "We stand in solidarity with the Judiciary."