The Socialist and Democrats group in the European Parliament has lambasted the European People's Party for entering the Maltese political fray as it lauded Malta’s "progressive government".

S&D president Gianni Pittella criticised the harshly-worded statement made by EPP chairman Manfred Weber yesterday who said Maltese democracy was under threat in the wake of criminal proceedings taken against Nationalist MP Jason Azzopardi.

But in a counter-statement this morning, Mr Pittella said position taken by EPP is unacceptable.

"It is simply based on exploiting a case instituted by a private citizen against a Nationalist Member of Parliament, to the detriment of Malta and the Maltese government. It is a partisan tactic which tries to undermine a country for some political gain. The Socialists and Democrats will not accept this kind of tactics, particularly since it is amply clear that the PN’s intent – which is a member of EPP – is to sabotage Malta’s position, moreover as the Maltese Presidency of the EU Council is approaching."

The authoritarian route that Weber referred to was laid down by his Nationalist colleagues who spent 25 years in government and did nothing to repeal criminal libel laws

“EPP chairman Manfred Weber should not be part of the biased partisan games that his Nationalist colleagues in Malta are trying to play. The authoritarian route that Weber referred to was laid down by his Nationalist colleagues who spent 25 years in government and did nothing to repeal criminal libel laws. The Socialist and Democrat government on the other hand is legislating for more media freedom,” Mr Pittella said.

He said the Maltese government holds democratic values and the rule of law in high regard. The S&D is proud of the achievements of the Labour government which is putting into practice the principles of social equality, new civil liberties and progressive politics, and it will not let the EPP damage Malta’s reputation.

"The Maltese government is also legislating for political transparency such as the law regulating party financing and the removal of prescription for politicians. These progressive laws where never considered during the Nationalist government’s tenure."

PN, PL react

In a statement, the Nationalist Party said it is evident that from the statement signed by the S&D President that Joseph Muscat's "friends" are not comfortable defending the Panama scandal.

Even thought the EPP highly criticised the Maltese Prime Minister's dealings with his Chief of Staff and Deputy Leader after it was revealed that they opened secret companies in Panama, the S&D refused to comment on this scandal - clearly showing that they are uncomfortable defending the indefensible, the PN said.

"Muscat should explain to his colleagues within the S&P the whole truth about the Panama scandal, and say whether his lack of action is the result of his involvement in this biggest political scandal in Maltese history."

Meanwhile, the Labour Party said the S&D are seeing through the Nationalist Party’s attempt to use its political network in Europe to unsuccessfully try tarnishing Malta’s reputation for partisan gain.

"Simon Busuttil's frustration comes from the fact their puerile attempts are hitting a blank each time all facts are exposed. It is a pity that they are trying drag a European political party into petty politics."