Malta’s deputy prime minister has resigned from his position and withdrawn his bid for the European Commission following charges of fraud in a hospital scandal that has rocked the Mediterranean island nation. In his resignation letter, the deputy prime minister maintained his innocence but emphasized the importance of prioritizing Malta's interests above all else.
The resignation comes in the wake of allegations of fraud and misappropriation of funds in connection with a 2015 government deal that involved the privatization of management for three hospitals. The deal was nullified by the courts last year due to findings of fraud. The deputy prime minister, who held a junior health minister role during the time of the agreement, is among several current and former officials facing charges in relation to the scandal.
Despite asserting his innocence, the deputy prime minister stated that stepping down was the appropriate course of action. His decision to resign follows similar actions taken by other officials, including the former Prime Minister, who have also denied any wrongdoing in the matter.
