Malta’s deputy prime minister resigned on Friday and withdrew his bid for the European Commission after being charged with fraud in a hospital scandal that has shaken the Mediterranean island nation.
In his resignation letter, Chris Fearne maintained his innocence but stated that he must prioritize Malta's interests above all else. He requested Prime Minister Robert Abela to retract his candidacy for the European Commission, emphasizing that his decision was driven by a sense of duty.
Fearne's resignation follows recent revelations that he is facing allegations of fraud and misappropriation of funds in connection to a controversial 2015 agreement that transferred the management of three hospitals to a private entity. The court invalidated the concession last year, citing fraudulent activities.
At the time of the hospital deal, Fearne held the position of junior health minister. He is among several current and former officials who are confronting legal charges, including former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat, who also refutes any wrongdoing.
