The Nationalist Party expressed serious concern over the fact that a person facing very serious criminal charges, including corruption and money laundering, has been selected by the University to present a new podcast of the highest educational institution in our country.

While understanding that former Nexia BT partner Karl Cini is an employee of the University, the PN expressed its concern about this choice, as it may appear to be an attempt at reputational laundering of an individual over whom a heavy shadow hangs.

The PN said it has always encouraged academics to speak out about what is taking place in the country. Today, several academics have expressed their disappointment in connection with this case.

The PN said it believes in justice and that every individual has the right to a fair and proper hearing. However, it does not expect that someone facing very serious charges related to the Panama Papers, and currently undergoing court proceedings in connection with one of the largest corruption scandals in Malta, should be entrusted by the country's highest educational institution to lead such an initiative.

Karl Cini, who works at the university as a part-time research support officer, was chosen to host the inaugural episode of The AI Lounge.

Cini previously played a prominent role at the now-defunct firm Nexia BT and became widely associated with the 2016 Panama Papers scandal, having acted as the intermediary who helped set up offshore companies for former OPM chief of staff Keith Schembri and former minister Konrad Mizzi.

He is currently facing multiple criminal charges, including money laundering and corruption, arising from investigations into 17 Black, the Panama Papers, and the Electrogas power station project.

Cini denies all allegations and has pleaded not guilty in court.