PM offers ‘protection’ for information, Debono rubbishes claim

Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi has declared that he would offer "protection" to anyone who comes forward with "relevant information" on fuel procurement practices inside state utility Enemalta, after MaltaToday published evidence that strongly pointed towards a culture of kickbacks from oil importers.

"I am ready to use all my powers and offer protection to anyone comes forward with the relevant information about the case," Gonzi said today, after having ignored suggestions by Frank Portelli, a former PN official and candidate, to convene parliament in a bid to enact a Whistleblowers' Act.

Gonzi earlier today said there was no need for an emergency meeting of the House, saying the whistleblowers' act, which would give protection to who 'blows the whistle' on corrupt practices, would be the first law to come into force after the 9 March election.

But his offer for protection was welcomed with less enthusiasm by one of his greatest critics, the Nationalist MP Franco Debono, who hit out at Gonzi accusing him of "prejudicing the police investigation" with his comments.

"This is the ultimate insult to the people. Instead of resigning for failing to legislate against corruption and for protecting Austin Gatt despite the failed projects he was involved in, he is now offering protection. Does he think he's some Mafia boss? Who is he to offer protection, especially when there are no guarantees that he or another member of the Cabinet is involved?" Debono said, in comments to MaltaToday.

"Gonzi is not above the law. The earlier he realises it, the better it will be for the country... After all he is a caretaker Prime Minister."

The MP, whose vote against the government's budget this year prompted early elections, said that protection shouldn't be given by a prime minister but it should be accorded by law. "He should stop immediately from making such statements. As a Maltese citizen I am keeping him responsible for these statements. What if someone's information involves him or Austin Gatt or someone else? How can someone who could potentially be involved, offer you protection?" Debono said.

"I don't trust the Prime Minister. And I do question the reason for which a magisterial inquiry has not yet been opened," Debono said.

The Times today reported that the police had enough evidence to issue charges on the kickbacks paid for Enemalta oil purchases, but more people have to be questioned.

Interrogators have also questioned the man at the heart of the investigation, petrochemist Frank Sammut, Trafigura's representative George Farrugia and Enemalta's former chairman Tancred Tabone.