Prime Minister Joseph Muscat should set aside his personal interests and prioritise national interests by resigning from his post, in order to protect Malta’s financial services and economy, the Shadow Minister for finances and deputy leader of the Nationalist Party Mario de Marco.

The press conference was also addressed by shadow minister for the economy Claudio Grech and spokesperson for financial services, IT and gaming, Kristy Debono.

Dr de Marco said that trouble has gripped the nation with a series of scandals affecting the highest level of government, the Prime Minister, his chief of staff and the office of the Prime Minister. These scandals have also been reported by international media.

“This places a risk on the reputation of our country. We, as a people are proud of the achievements made by Malta, not just through our political strength but through the strength of Maltese and Gozitan workers who have committed themselves to showing the professionalism and credibility of Malta, a place to invest,” said Dr de Marco.

He referred to the most recent scandals which allege that Mrs Michelle Muscat is the true owner of Egrant Inc, a company named in the Panama Papers scandal, and that she received US$1.017 million from one of the daughters of the Azerbaijani president, Leyla Aliyeva, through Pilatus Bank, Ta’ Xbiex.

Dr de Marco made reference to the former Central Bank Governor, Francis Vassallo, and the President of the Institute of Accounts Franco Azzopardi, who all spoke of the Prime Minister’s position no longer being tenable.