Court Ruling on Hospital Contract Scandal

Malta's former Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne has seen his ambitions to become a European commissioner dashed after a court ruled that a fraud case against him will proceed to trial. The Court of Magistrates determined that there is sufficient evidence for Fearne and other accused individuals, including Central Bank Governor Edward Scicluna and former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, to face charges related to alleged fraudulent hospital contracts. In a statement on social media, Fearne expressed confidence in his eventual exoneration, asserting his "complete innocence." However, the ongoing legal proceedings have compelled him to resign from his position as deputy prime minister and withdraw his candidacy for the European commissioner role. Prime Minister Robert Abela had previously indicated that he would support Fearne's nomination for the position if the court cleared him of wrongdoing. The scandal has raised concerns about the lack of viable candidates for the health commissioner role, particularly as the European Union continues to navigate the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lisa Goerlitz, head of the Brussels office at health NGO DSW, emphasized the need for experienced candidates to ensure that health remains a political priority within the EU. Fearne, who was the longest-serving health minister in Europe before stepping down in January, leaves a significant gap in leadership at a critical time for public health in the region. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched, as it could have lasting implications for Malta's political landscape and the EU's health governance.