Sometimes I wonder why Prime Minister Joseph Muscat goes to such lengths to alienate and ridicule Simon Busuttil in Parliament when he knows full well that what Simon Busuttil is saying is the truth and nothing but the truth. Dr Muscat has failed terribly when, before the general election he promised us a new style of politics, a new style to deliver what he promised, a new style on how to be transparent and accountable, how to appoint people of trust on meritocracy, how to preserve our environment as much as possible.

Three years have gone by and what do we have? Two of his parliamentary secretaries, Michael Falzon and Ian Borg, are still serving in Cabinet when the Prime Minister knows full well that they do not deserve to remain there because they have committed serious mistakes to the detriment of honest individuals. Both of them have done wrong. But Dr Muscat is adamant in his decision to keep the honourable members in their appointments for as long as possible. Well done, Sir... Keep it up.

The way the Prime Minister vilifies the Leader of the Opposition, as though wishing to cross the room and tear him apart is beyond my comprehension. Dishonesty, deception and hypocrisy existed during the Nationalist administration, yes indeed... but now things are going way too far. Is this because the dishonesty, corruption and hypocrisy of the Labour Party are in such a bad shape that there seems to be no boundaries whatsoever?

Very recently, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of Manila in the Philippines was quoted as saying: "When a politician fails to fulfil promises made before an election, when he ignores the common good of the people or indulge in corruption, then he should be loyal enough to resign or be removed."

Unfortunately, however, 36,000 extra votes are enough to keep this government implementing what he wants during this term and perhaps yes, even during the next five years as well! However, the Prime Minister should open his eyes and abide by what he promised because trust in his government is slowly but surely being eroded. Trust in this government still needs to be discovered perhaps, who knows! We'll have to wait and see.

Jos Edmond Zarb

Birkirkara