Robert Abela Accuses PN Of Trying To Turn Daphne Verdict Into Political Gain

Prime Minister Robert Abela has accused the Nationalist Party and Opposition Leader Alex Borg of taking a partisan approach following Wednesday’s verdict in the trial over the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia.

Speaking from Castille, Abela said the PN’s approach appeared focused on gaining political advantage from the situation rather than on the wider objective of establishing the full truth and identifying whoever may still be responsible for Caruana Galizia’s murder.

Abela described Borg’s tone since the verdict as irresponsible and partisan, arguing that such a sensitive moment required maturity rather than political point-scoring.

The Prime Minister also reacted to comments and implications surrounding Castille’s possible involvement in the murder, saying he would not speculate or make political conclusions before the institutions complete their work.

He insisted that the police, magistrates and courts should be allowed to investigate independently, adding that he would only comment on the basis of facts established by the competent authorities.

Abela confirmed that he has neither met nor contacted Borg since Wednesday’s verdict. The two sides will instead face each other in Parliament tomorrow after the Labour Government accepted the Opposition’s request for a parliamentary debate.

He said the government would enter that debate “with its head held high”, while again warning against turning the Caruana Galizia case into a partisan political battle.

Abela maintained that the focus should remain on allowing the institutions to uncover the truth and determine whether any further individuals should face action in connection with the murder.

#MaltaDaily