Manuel Mallia’s refusal to resign from Cabinet yesterday was “the worst kind of arrogance”, according to Alternattiva Demokratika.

Spokesman Carmel Cacopardo said Dr Mallia had challenged Joseph Muscat’s authority. “The Prime Minister only dismissed Dr Mallia because he was under pressure because of a strong public opinion to do so,” he said. The decision to allow Dr Mallia to resign was “ridiculous”.

AD chairman Arnold Cassola said the Prime Minister should have decided to dismiss him the morning after the shooting.

AD also raised concerns over the ease with which recordings of sensitive police telephone calls were leaked to the press.

On Michael Cassar’s appointment as Police Commissioner, Mr Cacopardo said the former drug squad head had stuck his neck out for justice in the past, referring to bomb threats Mr Cassar had received.

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