Minister Owen Bonnici addressed parliament over concerns about the new magisterial inquiry reform, saying that it won’t let people to be baselessly accused.

The proposed magisterial inquiry reform has sparked a fierce debate between the Labour government and the Opposition Nationalist Party (PN), with both sides clashing over its implications for justice and accountability.

In his speech, Bonnici said that someone might accuse a Minister of corruption due to them not having their needs met in case of disagreement.

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Bonnici argued that the reform will put the necessary stops in place so as to avoid unnecessary or damning accusations whilst also protecting the innocently accused.

The Prime Minister has argued that the bill is necessary to prevent abuse of the judicial system. Under the current law, citizens can directly request a magisterial inquiry, but the new reform would require them to first approach the police, and only after six months, if necessary, escalate the request to a judge.

Abela insists this change will streamline the inquiry process, prevent politically motivated investigations, and protect individuals from unnecessary legal harassment.

He cited cases where public officials faced prolonged inquiries based on weak evidence, claiming the new system ensures only admissible evidence can trigger an investigation.

The Opposition, however, condemns the bill as a means to shield the government from scrutiny.

PN Leader Bernard Grech argues that shifting control to the police—who report to the prime minister—removes judicial independence and makes it harder for citizens to investigate corruption.

Grech claims the bill is designed to block inquiries into government scandals and erode democracy. While Labour insists the reform enhances justice, the PN sees it as a dangerous step toward authoritarianism and reduced government accountability.

#MaltaDaily