Prime Minister Riobert Abela is rewriting democracy into autocracy, clause by clause, Momentum chairperson Arnold Cassola said today.

Robert Abela's descent into authoritarian politics did not start today, with the restrictions imposed on citizens via the reforms to the way magisterial inquiries are initiated.

In fact, in a statement by Abela released yesterday by the Standards Commissioner, it was revealed that in 2023 Robert Abela threatened to change the Standards Commissioner law to prevent Cassola from lodging reports.

The Sandards Commissioner, Judge Joseph Azzopardi, disagreed with the Prime Minister that Cassola was abusing of the law, since he was only exercising his legitimate rights. Any change in the law would signify a regression in government accountabilty, stated the Standards Commissioner.

The Standards Commissioner concluded that Robert Abela seems to be defending and justifying clientelism in public administration.

Momentum Chairperson Arnold Cassola stated: "Robert Abela is sliding down the dangerous path of authoritarianism. Like all aspiring political dictators, he is resorting to anti-democratic measures, such as restricting citizens' rights to scrutinze people in power. We at Momentum will be on the front line to combat Robert Abela's attack on the democratic institutions of our country".