Political system has failed us - Petra Caruana Dingli
Joseph Muscat is set to have the most flawed political legacy of Malta’s prime ministers. Murder and corruption have been linked to his closest circle. So far, it is only links and allegations, but he is leaving under a dark cloud of suspicion and regret.
In his televised resignation speech and in his final Sunday visits to Labour Party clubs, Muscat has tried to shape the story of his legacy, recalling the achievements of his administration. But history is evaluated and written by others.
His henchmen are also attempting to shine a positive light on his legacy. One viewpoint being nurtured in his defence is that he “distributed wealth to the people”. But Muscat is no Robin Hood.
He was the head of a tight and putrid web of bad governance, which he will only reluctantly let go under extreme pressure.
It is hard to believe that Muscat missed anything happening right under his nose, and that he did not pick up the scent of wrongdoing, as he would have us think. He is too close to his aide Keith Schembri, and far too shrewd, for that to be credible.
Muscat should resign immediately. Each day fosters more unrest and uncertainty. People have had enough and his time is up.