Momentum on Sunday expressed disappointment following comments made today by Prime Minister Robert Abela confirming the failure of the Ta' Qali gravel project. After months of assurances that the project would succeed, the Prime Minister has now admitted that the public should not expect grass to grow in the coming months, effectively acknowledging that the initiative has not delivered what was promised.

This project has already cost taxpayers over €300,000. Throughout this period, the public was repeatedly told that the situation would improve month after month, despite clear signs that the works were fundamentally flawed. The Prime Minister's admission today confirms that the public was misled and that the assurances given were not grounded in reality.

Even more troubling is the Prime Minister's decision to continue backing Jason Micallef despite his poor performance and the misleading statements made in relation to this project. This reflects a troubling pattern where political loyalty is placed above competence, accountability, and the public interest.

It is even more serious that Jason Micallef is the Prime Minister's Special Envoy, entrusted with the implementation of the government electoral manifesto.

The situation is further aggravated by Robert Abela's confirmation that Ta' Qali will be used for concerts from March onwards, with any attempt to remedy the damage postponed until after the concert season. This means Maltese families will have been deprived of the use of a key public recreational space for well over a year, at least until late 2026, due to decisions taken without proper planning or foresight.

Momentum Leader Arnold Cassola said; "This is a clear example of bad governance, a waste of public funds, and a total disregard for meritocracy and transparency. The Prime Minister's role is to safeguard the public interest, not to defend the arrogant and expensive fiascos of his special envoy. Malta deserves better standards of leadership, accountability, and respect for its citizens".