Opposition PAC Members Request Auditor General Investigation into Malita Investments

Opposition representatives on the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) have formally requested the Auditor General to open an investigation into Malita Investments p.l.c., following allegations of poor governance and political interference.

The request was submitted on Monday afternoon at the National Audit Office by PAC Chair Darren Carabott, committee members Graham Bencini and Mario De Marco, and Shadow Minister for Social and Affordable Housing Ivan Bartolo.

The initiative comes after former Labour MEP and former Malita Chairperson Marlene Mizzi publicly alleged political interference within the company. Mizzi claimed that Housing Minister Roderick Galdes had cultivated relationships with contractors linked to Malita and asserted that she was removed from her position after raising concerns about governance shortcomings.

Malita Investments is responsible for acquiring, developing and managing properties as part of multi-million-euro national projects, including social housing. The Government is the majority shareholder, with the rest of the shares publicly listed on the Malta Stock Exchange. The company falls under the political responsibility of Minister Galdes.

In their submission, the PN representatives asked the Auditor General to examine whether Malita Investments utilised public funds and assets responsibly and transparently, whether procurement processes were properly followed, and whether governance standards were upheld. They also urged the Auditor General to issue recommendations on how state-linked companies should operate to prevent situations similar to those alleged.

The allegations raised by Mizzi have prompted wider scrutiny of the company’s internal management. In recent days, Malita’s Executive Chairman, appointed in 2024 after Mizzi’s departure, tendered his resignation. This follows earlier resignations by the company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

Opposition members argued that the investigation is essential to safeguard the public interest, particularly given the importance of social housing and the pressures faced by families and young people seeking affordable accommodation. They maintained that the public “has every right to know” how public funds and assets allocated to housing are being managed.

The National Audit Office is expected to review the request and determine the next steps.

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