Ronald Mizzi has resigned from the post of Permanent Secretary within the Ministry for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic projects.

Mizzi is one of the persons facing charges in the hospitals deal case. On Wednesday, the court decreed that there was enough prima facie evidence for him, and others, to be indicted.

In a statement, the Office of the Principal Permanent Secretary said that in his letter, "Mizzi reiterated that he is confident that facts will emerge in Court which dissolve him, but believes that at this moment, this is the most personal choice that makes sense and respects the public administration."

The statement read that Nancy Caruana will be assuming the role of Permanent Secretary within the Ministry for the Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects. "She is currently occupying the post of Permanent Secretary within the Ministry for inclusion and the Voluntary sector, which role will be assumed by Permanent Secretary Mark Musu in addition to the role he has today."

It read that Nancy Caruana already has experience in economics and has served as Permanent Secretary in this Ministry for eight years between 2014 and 2022.

Posting a statement on Facebook, Ronald Mizzi said that he offered his resignation after reflection and taking note of the recent developments in the court case. He said that his resignation was accepted by the Principal Permanent Secretary.

"I took this step with respect to the Administration, government and the position that I always served in with great duty, as well as towards my colleagues, and to ensure that I can defend myself in the best way possible. While I reiterate my innocence, I believe that the facts that completely exonerate me still need to come out.”

He said that this is the right step to take at this moment.

He thanked the Principal Permanent Secretary and his predecessor for the trust they placed in him, and "not least the two Prime Ministers and all the ministers who I worked with, for the wonderful opportunity to serve my country."