Prime Minister Robert Abela insisted Monday that there is "no proof" of wrongdoing by former Minister Roderick Galdes, saying his resignation was taken out of responsibility to avoid unproven allegations overshadowing the government's work.

Speaking to journalists on Monday, Abela has insisted that no new facts emerged in the weeks between his public defence of Roderick Galdes and the acceptance of the former minister's resignation, telling The Malta Independent that the decision was taken solely to prevent unproven allegations from overshadowing the government's work.

"Absolutely nothing changed. It was a decision which was taken uniquely not because new facts emerged, but because ex-Minister Galdes did not want to let the allegations against him tarnish the strong work government is currently doing," Abela said.

He stressed that, to date, he has not seen "a crumb of proof" that Galdes committed any wrongdoing.

"Had I had proof that the allegations were true, I would have taken a decision myself," Abela said, reiterating that no such proof has been presented to him.

Abela said Galdes had chosen the road of responsibility by stepping aside, despite the allegations remaining unproven.

"He put the party and government before himself. Not many people are capable of taking that step," Abela said, adding that Galdes is now in a more comfortable position to defend his integrity and reputation outside ministerial office.

The Prime Minister dismissed a report following the resignation alleging that Galdes' brother was in contact with contractors, describing it as "a recycled story from three years ago."

He said similar claims had already surfaced in 2023 and were now being revived.

"The resignation may have given the impression that it was in some way related to yesterday's reportage, but it was taken in a general manner because he did not want the persistent allegations of the last few weeks - none of which have been proven - to throw a shadow over the work the government is doing," Abela said.

He drew parallels with previous cases, including that of Carmelo Abela, saying the Opposition often seeks to capitalise on allegations.

"We should not forget what happened against Carmelo Abela, when he was painted as a criminal until the Appeals Court cleared his name," Abela said, describing Galdes' situation as "an analogy of the past."

Abela said that, unlike previous eras, today's standards of accountability are higher.

"These actions strengthen ethical standards because you have politicians who are accountable to the people," he said, adding that Galdes' resignation reflects that culture.

Asked why housing was not reassigned a Ministry following Galdes' resignation, Abela said Parliamentary Secretary Andy Ellul falls directly under the Prime Minister's Office, arguing that this move has elevated the importance of the housing sector.

He said resources for housing have increased and highlighted several initiatives implemented under Galdes' tenure, including the pre-1995 rent reform, the 10% deposit scheme, equity-sharing, fiscal incentives for first-time buyers, and social and affordable housing projects.

"There is still a challenge in the affordable housing sector," Abela said, adding that this was precisely why he has taken direct responsibility for it, with Ellul's support.

Asked whether he personally asked Galdes to resign, Abela said discussions between himself and the former Minister would remain private, but reiterated his appreciation for Galdes' decision.

"He never said what his interest was, but he always said that if the allegations against him were tarnishing the government's work, he was ready to step aside," Abela said.

Responding to a report by Nazzjon suggesting Galdes had spoken to Head of Secretariat Mark Mallia rather than the Prime Minister, Abela said he had not read the report and criticised the publication's standards.

He insisted that he and Mallia work in a coordinated manner.

On allegations involving Malita Investments raised by Marlene Mizzi, Abela said there have been "many allegations" but "not a single proof" presented to him.

He added that others had remained in office despite clear evidence of wrongdoing, contrasting that with Galdes' decision to resign despite the absence of proof.

Asked whether Galdes would be allowed to contest an election on the Labour ticket, Abela reiterated that there is no proof against him.

He said any such decision would follow the party's internal procedures, with Galdes applying like any other candidate and his application being scrutinised by the relevant board.

"According to the circumstances, the public can give out the verdict," Abela said, adding that if proof of wrongdoing were to emerge, Galdes would have to answer for it.