The Opposition said it expected the government to vote for a motion calling for the setting up of a parliamentary committee to scrutinise candidates for the post of Central Bank governor.
The motion was presented yesterday in light of corruption allegations made against Alfred Mifsud, deputy governor of the Central Bank, who was widely touted as the next governor. He has denied the allegations.
The motion was presented to the Speaker of the House, Anġlu Farrugia, by Opposition deputy leader Mario de Marco and MPs Kristy Debono and Francis Zammit Dimech.
Dr de Marco said that the Opposition expected the motion to be approved and its proposals implemented soon. He pointed out that both the Nationalist and Labour electoral programmes had pledged the setting up of such a committee.
“A post such as that of governor of the Central Bank of Malta involves international exposure, and it’s crucial there is good governance when choosing people for such roles. This will make for more transparency and accountability,” he added.
We need to send out a message of transparency, especially in light of the Panama Papers scandal
He said the committee should also scrutinise other appointments to high-profile posts.
Ms Debono referred to the controversy that arose following the claims against Mr Mifsud and said this was a highly sensitive post, especially since a person in that position would also sit on the board of the European Central Bank.
She pointed out Finance Minister Edward Scicluna himself last week spoke of the need for such parliamentary scrutiny.
“We need to send out a message of transparency, especially in light of the Panama Papers scandal and its implications for the financial sector,” Ms Debono added.
Dr Zammit Dimech said the new committee could be structured in the same way as the Public Accounts Committee. It should be chaired by an Opposition MP and would be able to summon witnesses.
Appointments to sensitive posts should initially be made subject to approval by a two-thirds majority of the House, he added.
Mr Mifsud informed the government on Tuesday that he did not wish to be considered for the post of governor. He still serves as deputy governor.