The Standards Commissioner Joseph Azzopardi has declined to investigate former Minister Roderick Galdes over allegations linked to statements made by former MEP Marlene Mizzi, citing the expiry of the legal time limit for such cases.

In a report issued following a request by political party Momentum, the Commissioner concluded that the matter falls outside the one-year prescription period established by law, preventing any formal investigation from being carried out.

The request had been submitted by Momentum chair Arnold Cassola, who called for an inquiry into the Minister’s conduct in light of Mizzi’s allegations.

Reacting to the Commissioner’s decision, Cassola criticised the current legal framework, arguing that the one-year prescription period—agreed upon by both major political parties, the PN and PL—undermines accountability.

“The one year prescription period agreed upon by PN and PL is working marvellously to cover up for the alleged misdeeds of ministers,” he said.

He further warned that proposed government plans to abolish ministerial declarations would weaken transparency. “With the abolition of ministerial declarations being now proposed by government, the cover up will now be complete. Transparency and accountability towards citizens is being thrown to the dogs,” Cassola added.

The Commissioner’s report was communicated to Momentum via email, confirming that no further action can be taken under the current legal framework.