An expression that reverts to medieval times is ‘Power behind the throne’. Some monarchs’ policies were set in place by others, instead of by the reigning sovereign. The most classic case was Cardinal de Richelieu. He held the clout behind King Louis XIII of France. Through his astuteness, Richelieu was considered the real authority that called the shots.

So, in Malta, who stands behind our political seat of power? Who is calling the shots? Who has clout over our political establishment? Do we have our own version of Richelieu?

These may be provocative questions to query, but is it not high time to probe?

The recent political turmoil, the everlasting sleaze allegations, the bizarre mega planning permissions, the secret accounts, the shady dealings with disputable characters, the changing of established policies to accommodate certain people, the amnesties and lately the party financing revelations, make these questions more pertinent and urgent.

Many are rightfully concerned. Honest citizens are questioning if the people’s will is just a charade. Many wonder if there is a sinister and baleful group of people pulling the strings to appease their greed. Some point at particular businessmen, developers, corporations or audit firms. Some call them Freemasons or ‘brotherhood of men’ covertly scratching each other’s back.

I opt to call them ‘fat cats’ whose core motives are greed, glory and power. They are highly capable manipulators. They know which tune to play and which buttons to press at the right moment.

They are embarrassing honest politicians and further increasing citizens’ mistrust in politics.

Through their ‘generous’ donations, lavish social gatherings, expensive tokens and subtle networking of ‘friends’ in high and right places, they shrewdly secure their strategic positions. They consider their ‘generosity’ merely an investment. They constantly seek to be in the good books of those in the seats of power. In covert meetings they push their self-centred agenda. They hold no political convictions but rather profess political opportunism.

Although they openly support the reigning king, so as to get his attention and curry favour, they discretely keep a low profile with the opposition, just in case the tide changes. They keep a close eye on opinion polls so as to know which side of the fence to sit on.

Notwithstanding the leverage that the db Group thought they had, Simon Busuttil was able to remain critical of the deal

Since for them money is power, they are not embarrassed to use it as leverage to influence or even change policies and/or decisions which do not fit in their grand scheme of self-advancement. They are convinced that with and through money the sky is their limit. Upholding the common good is a mere detail.

Sadly, political parties play ball.

So, the recent revelations that the db Group ‘donated’ a substantial amount of money to the Nationalist Party does not come as a surprise. Although the Labour Party cried foul, it only takes a fool to believe that the Labour Party is not game too. One would be naïve, dishonest or a hypocrite to deny this. Many are morally convinced the Labour Party received and still receives similar financial support. During the last four years, we all witnessed a number of chickens coming to roost at Castille.

Getting hold of a strategic piece of land in Paceville for a pittance may probably be just another example of the many pre-electoral agreements signed on the fourth floor. Ask the current Speaker for further references.

Undoubtedly, this episode dented the recovery of the Nationalist Party’s credibility.  The silver lining is that, notwithstanding the leverage that the db Group thought they had, Simon Busuttil was able to remain critical of the deal.

Although they tried to silence him, his terse reply was: “We will not be silenced. We will not be blackmailed.” Good for him, that he stood his ground. Not only was he not coerced; he even demanded that the Auditor General investigate further.

Undoubtedly, db Group never expected Busuttil to bite the hand that ‘feeds’ him. Although the Labour trolls had a field day trying to discreditthe man, for a growing number of people, Busuttil is coming across as a determined leader.

He is not afraid to take the bull by the horns and deal with possible skeletons. It is reassuring to hear Simon’s declaration that under his watch the party will not be in anyone’s pocket.

A working commission was set up to come forward with concrete recommendations. Hopefully, these may include the introduction of state funding, banning donations from the business community, setting up a more autonomous commercial entity within the party, making financial investments, organising good fundraising activities, cutting overhead expenses and more.

It is in our national interest to keep these manipulators at arm’s length. I have entered into politics with the determination to keep these fat cats at bay. They are a threat to our democratic credentials. It is much better to lose an election or fail to be elected rather than to become a puppet on a string without a ‘soul’.

As the saying goes, it is better to sleep on the doorstep of an honest house than to dwell and dine in the tents of the wicked.

Albert Buttigieg is a Nationalist Party candidate on the ninth and 10th districts and deputy mayor of St Julian’s.