Repubblika has spoken out following reports that Roderick Galdes, the Minister responsible for social and affordable housing, bought a penthouse from developer Joseph Portelli's company for €140,000, "a price that does not reflect anything close to what Maltese families would have to pay for a similar property on today's market."

"At a time when young couples are finding themselves unable to keep up with the housing market, and when Maltese families are being crushed under impossible debt, the Minister entrusted with protecting them appears to be enjoying benefits that ordinary citizens can never access."

Repubblika said that this case raises serious concerns about a conflict of interest.

"Companies belonging to, or linked with, the same developer have been awarded multi-million-euro contracts by departments that fall under the same Minister. Even if we set aside questions about whether the transaction was in line with the law, it is still unacceptable for a Minister to enter into a property deal with a developer who benefits from public contracts issued by his own ministry. Public office must not be used, nor appear to be used, for personal advantage," the civil society organisation said.

"What makes the situation worse is that the government continues to refuse to publish Ministers' declarations of assets. Secrecy fuels suspicion. Ministers have no right to special treatment; they must be accountable to the public."

Repubblika called for: 1) An immediate and independent investigation into whether preferential treatment or influence played any role in this property transaction; 2) The urgent and updated publication of all Ministers' declarations of assets. 3) Clear and enforceable rules preventing Ministers and senior officials from entering personal business deals with individuals or companies holding contracts awarded by departments under their authority.

Repubblika said that the housing crisis is not an abstract matter. "It is a daily burden for thousands of people who cannot afford to buy or rent a decent home. Nothing is more cynical than a Minister for "Affordable Housing" using his privileged position to acquire property that ordinary people can give up hope of ever owning. Malta deserves leaders who defend the public, not friends of friends who enjoy the benefits of a system that leaves everyone else behind," Repubblika said.