Gonzi should reveal what led to presidential pardon - Muscat

Labour leader Joseph Muscat said he was not in a position to judge the Cabinet's decision to grant a businessman involved in the Enemalta oil scandal a presidential pardon and called for prudence.

"I only know what has been said publicly. I understand the Prime Minister has more details at hand, probably even more than what is in the public domain, which would explain why he took this decision," Muscat said.

He added that he was not in a position to judge the Prime Minister's decision, "but I hope that the Prime Minister reveals what led to this decision. On the other hand, this case confirmed the urgent need for a whistleblowers act because such cases cannot remain dependent on pardons given by the politicians. What if a politician is involved? This is the point which is concerning me and people."

He stressed that the whistleblowers act is needed "so decisions are not taken at the discretion of politicians."

Yesterday evening, businessman George Farrugia, the local agent for commodities firm Trafigura, which is alleged to have paid 'commissions' to a former MOBC chief executive for the supply of oil to state utility Enemalta, was granted a presidential pardon to turn State's witness and testify in a court of law on the allegations first reported by MaltaToday.

On the €1.128 billion EU funds obtained yesterday, Muscat said: "We welcome the funds obtained however more importantly it is about how the funds are used. We look forward to prove that we are able to use these funds in the best possible way if we are trusted to government."

Speaking in Mosta during the launch of Labour's candidates for the 9 March local council elections, Muscat said he wished well to all candidates contesting the elections, "because candidates on both sides worked hard for the good of the community."

In reference to the numerous scandals which rocked local council in the past few years, Muscat said that candidates have the responsibility of reconnecting local councils to the citizens. "Local councils are essential for the benefit of the citizens."

He added that with a new Labour government, local councils would not only be responsible for infrastructural projects but would also have greater social responsibilities, such as proactive role in outreach programmes to combat poverty and have more elderly persons living in the community.

Muscat said that Labour will be fielding 197 candidates. 25% of the candidates are women while 40% are contesting for first time and 29% are aged less than 35 years.

He added that a new government was not expecting favors but expects councillors to be proactive and "the voice of the citizen."

Muscat said that even if government does something which citizens disagree with, the duty of councillors ws to relay these sentiments to his administration.

Addressing the candidates, Muscat said: "Your alliance and loyalty is towards the citizens not to a Labour government. Whoever is elected on the councils, whether you are in majority or minority I ask you to work hand in hand with those of PN and AD."