The Malta Labour Party yesterday formally objected to the appointment of John Camilleri as chairman of the Public Broadcasting Services editorial board in view of previous positions he occupied within the Nationalist Party.

In a meeting with the Broadcasting Authority chairman and chief executive officer Joseph Scicluna and Dr Kevin Aquilina, MLP secretary general Jason Micallef, MLP spokesman for public duties Helena Dalli and the party’s media executive Mark Farrugia objected to the Mr Camilleri’s appointment.

Mr Micallef said it was not acceptable that Mr Camilleri is appointed to such a crucial role in the local media at a time described as “sensitive”, when a general election is fast approaching. He said Mr Camilleri occupied several posts within the PN including that of administrative secretary and private secretary of Dr Edward Fenech Adami when he was Prime Minister.

Mr Micallef said that in view of the sensitive time ahead, PBS has to be impartial and balanced in its reports.

On his part, Mr Scicluna said that while taking note of MLP’s objection to Mr Camilleri’s appointment, it will continue to ensure that PBS is truly the national television station.