If prosecution against Keith Schembri allowed to become time-barred, there must be consequences

During an exchange of views with European Commission President Von der Leyen held with the EPP Group Heads of National Delegations in Strasbourg, MEP David Casa made it clear that his constituents demanded stronger action from the EU to address the collapse of the rule of law in Malta.

“So many laws on paper, that are used to prosecute citizens the moment they fall out of line. But when it comes to those exposed by the Panama Papers – nothing. The corruption over which Daphne Caruana Galizia was assassinated to stop her from exposing – nothing.”

Mr. Casa also referred to the impending prescriptive period in relation to Keith Schembri’s alleged breaches of the Official Secrets and Security Services Act, and made it clear that if the authorities allowed it to lapse, it would be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.

“The then chief of staff to Joseph Muscat was not only handing over details of the investigation to the alleged murder mastermind Yorgen Fenech but he also shared a copy of Melvin Theuma’s pardon – if these alleged blatant breaches of the Official Secrets and Security Services Acts remain unprosecuted the Commission must act.”

The prescriptive period is due to lapse in December 2024, which would effectively make any prosecution time-barred.

“The strong stances taken by the European Parliament and the Council of Europe in defence of the Maltese people did not translate to the necessary concrete action from the Commission," stated Mr. Casa.

President Von der Leyen stated that she would take stock and hold further bilateral exchanges with MEP Casa on the matter.