Michelle Muscat Thanks Manuel Cuschieri for Support Amid Joseph Muscat's Criminal Charges

Michelle Muscat, the wife of former Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, has expressed her gratitude to Manuel Cuschieri for his support as her husband faces criminal charges related to the Vitals/Steward healthcare deal. The charges, which include money laundering, bribery, and corruption, are set to be addressed in court on May 28, 2024.

Joseph Muscat has been vocal about his innocence, claiming that the inquiry's findings, if made public, would reveal that the case against him is based on 'conjecture, lies, twisting of facts, and hearsay.' He has filed a court application to make the Vitals inquiry public, arguing that transparency is crucial for a fair trial.

Why this matters: The outcome of thiscase will have significant implications for Malta's political landscape and could lead to a shift in power dynamics. It also raises questions about accountability and transparency in government dealings, which is crucial for maintaining public trust.

A court has already granted Muscat access to parts of the inquiry where he is mentioned, but the full report remains unpublished. Muscat's lawyers have requested that the inquiry be admitted as evidence, which would make it publicly accessible through the court registrar. 'If the inquiry is published, it will prove that the case against me is built on conjecture, lies, twisting of facts, and hearsay,' Muscat stated.

Muscat's aggressive stance has not gone unnoticed. He has threatened to 'sweep away' his detractors and has turned to the court to make the details of the Vitals inquiry public. His wife, Michelle, has publicly thanked Cuschieri for his unwavering support, and a solidarity protest is planned in Valletta on May 28, 2024.

Civil society organization Repubblika has been critical of the Attorney General, Victoria Buttigieg, accusing her of giving preferential treatment to Muscat. Repubblika filed a judicial protest against Buttigieg for refusing to provide them with the conclusions of the magisterial inquiry into the fraudulent hospitals concession. 'The Attorney General wanted Joseph Muscat to have a privilege and advantage by ensuring that he immediately has access to all that he asked for,' Repubblika stated in their protest.

The Vitals/Steward healthcare deal, described as 'fraudulent' by Malta's highest court, has been a source of significant controversy. The inquiry has implicated several individuals, and the upcoming court date is expected to be a pivotal moment in Maltese politics.

As the date approaches, the public and political landscape in Malta remains tense. The solidarity protest in Valletta is likely to draw significant attention, highlighting the deep divisions and strong emotions surrounding this case.

The unfolding events around Joseph Muscat's criminal charges and the Vitals inquiry will undoubtedly continue to shape the political discourse in Malta. With both supporters and critics closely watching, the outcome of this case will have far-reaching implications.

Key Takeaways

• Michelle Muscat thanks Manuel Cuschieri for support as her husband faces criminal charges.
• Joseph Muscat claims innocence, says inquiry findings will reveal "conjecture, lies, and hearsay."
• Court date set for May 28, 2024, to address charges of money laundering, bribery, and corruption.
• Muscat requests full publication of Vitals inquiry, citing transparency and fairness.
• Case outcome will impact Malta's political landscape, accountability, and public trust.