The Pana Committee’s visit to Malta has shown how much Joseph Muscat has lost control of his government.

The best face-saving strategy for Muscat would have been for both Konrad Mizzi and Keith Schembri, the two identified in the Panama Papers leak to have opened a secret company in Panama, to appear in front of the Pana Committee.

Through his intervention, Mizzi convinced no one, so much so that the committee chairman spoke of potential money laundering. But, at least, Mizzi’s turning up kept Muscat’s supporters thinking there was nothing to hide and that Muscat was still in control.

Schembri, on the other hand, not only did not turn up but very stupidly questioned the authority of the Pana Committee, thereby casting doubt about its legitimacy. For his inane comment, Schembri earned a reprimand from the committee.

Schembri’s no-show proved that Muscat does not have the authority over his chief of staff, something that was felt before but is now evident.

The real question one must ask is why is Muscat so weak with regard to Schembri?