In the Press: PM sacks Mallia, Carmelo Abela sworn in as minister

Headlines today are focused on yesterday's events, which saw PM Joseph Muscat dismiss Manuel Mallia from his post as home affairs minister after Mallia refused to resign. 

MaltaToday

The PM did however add that Mallia 'still has a role to play' and that he was sure Mallia had 'valid contributions' to make. Carmelo Abela was sworn in as the new home affairs minister after Muscat finalized Mallia's dismissal. 

The Times of Malta

Paul Sheehan and Stephen Smith each took the stand yesterday, testifying in the compilation of evidence against Sheehan, who is charged with attempted murder. Smith said he feared for his life when a man he recognized to be Sheehan began acting aggressively while holding a gun. 

In-Nazzjon

PN leader Simon Busuttil said yesterday that the PM has failed his first test of leadership by delaying his decision to sack Mallia. He also criticized Muscat's decision to give Mallia the option to resign or face the sack. 

L-Orizzont

Consumers, the elderly in particular, have expressed concerns that propane gas may become scarce due to a service strike or a reduction in service from providers over the Christmas period. 

The Malta Independent

Alternattiva Demokratika have criticized the PM's decision, saying that it only came after public pressure. His hesitation, AD said, also served to weaken the public's trust in vital institutions.