Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech participated in the inaugural court hearing on Monday regarding the Opposition’s pursuit to recover funds allegedly “defrauded” by Steward Healthcare in the hospital deal.
Last year, Grech and Nationalist MP Adrian Delia initiated legal action against present and former government officials involved in hospital privatisation, urging the State Advocate’s involvement.
The government, represented by lawyers Chris Cilia, Ian Borg, and Maurizio Cordina, sought permission to intervene in the Opposition’s case against the State Advocate. Grech and Delia’s legal team responded by requesting urgent authorisation to present Delia’s affidavit. State Advocate lawyer James D’Agostino objected, proposing a deferral of evidence presentation until the matter of government intervention is resolved.
Justice Giovanni Grixti upheld this decision, scheduling oral submissions from all parties for the following Monday, deferring further proceedings.
During the hearing, Grech and Delia’s lawyer, Edward deBono, suggested that Judge Grixti disclose his family connection to the late consultant surgeon Charles Grixti, involved in the due diligence assessment of the hospitals. Despite acknowledging the relationship and offering recusal options, all parties expressed confidence in Judge Grixti, allowing the case to proceed under his jurisdiction.
Nationalist Party Leader Bernard Grech and MP Adrian Delia are pushing for State Advocate intervention to recover €400 million from Vitals and Steward. Grech accuses Prime Minister Robert Abela of delaying the revelation of the truth regarding hospital deals. Concerns about government intervention impacting independence have been raised. Court proceedings continue, with potential implications for international arbitration.
#MaltaDaily