[WATCH] Simon Busuttil pledges to clean up politics

Nationalist Party meets with members of the MCESD to discuss the need for cleaner politics and good governance

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Nationalist party leader Simon Busuttil said that the Party was determined to clean up politics once and for all by instilling measures to ensure good governance, transparence and accountability.

Speaking at a meeting with members of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD), Busuttil said that it was necessary to fight corruption and instill good governance, particularly in view of recent events.

Referring to Sunday's protest against corruption, which was attended by thousands, Busuttil emphasized the national rather than partisan nature of the concerns being voiced by those who attended the protest.

"I am ready to take responsibility for cleaning up politics," Busuttil said.

He once again presented the PN’s document on good governance to the MCESD, and invited them to discuss it and make proposals and suggested amendments. Busuttil pledged that the document would be revised according to the feedback received and that the measures would be implemented once the PN gets back in government.

"I also pledge that I will keep the MCESD up to date on the implementation of the document over time so that all partners will know whether the PN stands by its promise."

Busuttil outlined the various proposals in the document, and said that the Pn had suggested making politics more consensual by instilling the two-thirds majority system in parliament to more important decisions.

"This would ensure more transparency and that all parties are included in important decisions," he said adding that the PN wished to have the system in place for public positions like the President of the Republic.

Busuttil added that the PN is also pushing for hearings and shorter terms, as well as limitations on multiple positions, and restrictions on board memberships for people in public administration such as envoys and ambassadors among others.

"We are also pushing for a new code of ethics for ministers as well as their spouses," he said, adding that the PN was also pushing for a strengthening of the office of the Ombudsman among others.

Video is unavailable at this time.