The Socialists and Democrats condemns strongly the position taken by EPP Group Chairman Manfred Weber against Malta and its government.
The position taken by EPP is unacceptable. It is simply based on exploiting a case instituted by a private citizen against a Nationalist Member of Parliament, to the detriment of Malta and the Maltese government. It is a partisan tactic which tries to undermine a country for some political gain. The Socialists and Democrats will not accept this kind of tactics, particularly since it is amply clear that the PN’s intent – which is a member of EPP – is to sabotage Malta’s position, moreover as the Maltese Presidency of the EU Council is approaching.
“EPP Chairman Manfred Weber should not be part of the biased partisan games that his Nationalist colleagues in Malta are trying to play. The authoritarian route that Weber referred to was laid down by his Nationalist colleagues who spent 25 years in government and did nothing to repeal criminal libel laws. The Socialist and Democrat government on the other hand is legislating for more media freedom,” said S&D President Gianni Pittella.
The Maltese Government holds democratic values and the rule of law in high regard. The S&D is proud of the achievements of the Labour Government which is putting into practice the principles of social equality, new civil liberties and progressive politics, and it will not let the EPP damage Malta’s reputation. The Maltese Government is also legislating for political transparency such as the law regulating party financing and the removal of prescription for politicians. These progressive laws where never considered during the Nationalist Government’s tenure.
