Controversial Appointments in Maltese Government

The recent appointments made by Alicia Bugeja Said, the Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries and Animal Welfare in Malta, have become a focal point of public scrutiny. Her decision to enlist two consultants with controversial backgrounds has raised significant concerns about governance, transparency, and the ethical implications of political appointments. These individuals include a former deputy to Keith Schembri, the disgraced ex-chief of staff who is currently facing criminal charges, and a former Labour MP previously convicted for violating hunting and trapping laws. Such appointments have led to widespread debate over whether political favoritism is at play and if meritocracy is being sidelined within government institutions.

Alicia Bugeja Said’s Political Journey and Responsibilities

Alicia Bugeja Said, a relatively new figure in Maltese politics, hails from Mġarr and gained her parliamentary seat in 2022 through the female parliamentary quota system. As a young politician, she was quickly entrusted with the significant portfolio of Fisheries and Animal Welfare. While her rise in politics has been seen as a step toward greater female representation, her selection of advisors has overshadowed her tenure and raised doubts about the integrity of her leadership.

The Appointment of Phelim Cavlan: A Questionable Choice

One of the most controversial figures appointed by Bugeja Said is Phelim Cavlan, who has been granted a consultancy role focusing on political strategy and animal welfare reform. His contract is valued at over €26,000 per year, despite requiring him to work just 15 hours a week. This compensation package has drawn criticism, with many questioning whether public funds are being allocated efficiently and fairly.

Cavlan’s Background and Links to Scandal

Before securing this government consultancy, Cavlan worked at Allied Newspapers as a Business Development Manager. During his tenure, he worked closely with Adrian Hillman, the company’s former managing director, who, along with Keith Schembri, has been implicated in a high-profile criminal case involving allegations of fraud and money laundering. Both Hillman and Schembri are currently fighting these charges in court.

Cavlan was also involved in overseeing a €30 million investment into a new printing facility in Mrieħel, which was touted as a cutting-edge project. However, this facility failed to generate the expected returns and was eventually shut down after accumulating significant financial losses. The questionable nature of this failed venture, coupled with his past affiliations, has led to doubts about Cavlan’s qualifications and whether he is a suitable candidate for a public-sector advisory role.

Bertu Pace’s Appointment: Political Favoritism Over Merit?

In addition to hiring Cavlan, Bugeja Said has appointed Bertu Pace, a former Labour MP, as a consultant on general agriculture policies. His contract grants him an annual salary of nearly €10,000. While this might seem modest compared to Cavlan’s salary, Pace’s background and previous controversies make his appointment equally contentious.

Lack of Relevant Qualifications

Despite being entrusted with advising on agricultural policies, Pace does not hold any formal qualifications in agriculture or fisheries. He spent most of his professional life working at a bank, raising questions about whether his appointment was made based on expertise or political loyalty. Critics argue that a more qualified candidate should have been chosen to ensure informed policy-making in the agricultural sector.

Previous Legal Troubles and Scandals

Pace’s history of legal troubles further complicates his appointment. In 2016, he was suspended from his role as a consultant under then-Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Roderick Galdes, after police investigated his involvement in a development permit controversy. He was suspected of improperly obtaining a permit to construct a villa on agricultural land, an issue that remains a point of contention.

In 2019, he was also convicted of using illegal bird callers—devices banned under Maltese and EU laws to prevent unethical hunting practices. His violation of these environmental regulations contradicts the responsibilities expected of a consultant in the fisheries and animal welfare sector.

Additionally, in 2021, Pace was awarded an honorary title—Ġieħ is-Siġġiewi—but this decision was later revoked when it was revealed that the award had been granted without proper authorization from the local council. Such incidents contribute to public skepticism regarding his integrity and suitability for a government advisory position.

Concerns Over Social Media Conduct and Political Bias

Another pressing issue surrounding Pace’s appointment is his conduct on social media. He is known for making inflammatory remarks, often targeting political opponents and posting derogatory content. Some of his messages have been deemed offensive, particularly those containing vulgar language and derogatory comments towards women.

Despite warnings from senior government officials advising him to refrain from such divisive rhetoric, Pace has continued posting controversial content. This lack of accountability further fuels the argument that his appointment was politically motivated rather than based on merit or professionalism.

Broader Implications for Governance and Public Trust

The appointments of Cavlan and Pace point to a larger issue of governance and transparency in Malta’s political system. These cases illustrate how political affiliations often take precedence over qualifications and ethical considerations when it comes to distributing government roles.

Such practices can have detrimental effects on public trust. When individuals with questionable pasts or inadequate expertise are placed in positions of influence, the efficiency and credibility of government institutions suffer. Furthermore, the use of taxpayer money to fund these appointments raises ethical concerns about financial accountability and responsible governance.

Public Reaction and Calls for Reform

Public response to these appointments has been largely negative, with many calling for stricter vetting processes and greater accountability in political hiring practices. Good governance advocates argue that political appointments should be based on merit, transparency, and ethical standards rather than party loyalty.

Some have suggested the implementation of independent oversight committees to review public-sector appointments and ensure that candidates meet the necessary qualifications. Others have called for clearer guidelines on conflicts of interest to prevent individuals with controversial backgrounds from holding influential advisory positions.

Conclusion

The hiring of Phelim Cavlan and Bertu Pace by Alicia Bugeja Said has ignited concerns about ethics, transparency, and governance in Malta. The fact that one consultant has links to individuals facing criminal charges and another has a history of legal infractions and inappropriate public conduct raises serious questions about how government positions are allocated.

To rebuild public trust, authorities must prioritize merit-based appointments, enforce stricter ethical standards, and hold political figures accountable for their decisions. Without such reforms, the perception of political favoritism and misuse of public funds will continue to undermine the credibility of government institutions.

FAQs

What issues have arisen from Alicia Bugeja Said’s recent consultant appointments?
Her choice of advisors has been criticized due to their past controversies, lack of qualifications, and connections to legal scandals.

Who is Phelim Cavlan, and why is his appointment controversial?
Cavlan has ties to individuals facing criminal charges and was involved in failed projects, raising doubts about his credibility as a government consultant.

What role does Bertu Pace play in the government?
Pace serves as a consultant on agricultural policies despite lacking relevant qualifications and having a history of legal violations.

Has Bertu Pace faced legal consequences in the past?
Yes, he was convicted of using illegal bird callers and was investigated for obtaining a permit for unauthorized land development.

What ethical concerns do these appointments raise?
They suggest a pattern of political favoritism, lack of accountability, and inefficient use of public funds.

How has the public reacted to these appointments?
Many have criticized the lack of transparency and called for stricter vetting in public-sector hiring practices.

What can be done to improve transparency in government hiring?
Implementing independent oversight committees and stricter ethical guidelines can help ensure more accountable appointments.

Why was Pace’s honorary award revoked?
It was awarded without proper authorization, further highlighting governance issues surrounding his appointment.

What are the broader implications of these appointments?
They undermine public trust in governance and raise concerns about how political power is exercised in Malta.