Fabian Demicoli awarded new state consultancy contract

Fabian Demicoli, once a leading figure in the media arm of Malta’s Nationalist Party (PN), has been awarded a public relations consultancy contract with Infrastructure Malta, a government agency responsible for transport infrastructure development. This appointment has drawn scrutiny due to Demicoli's simultaneous engagement in a full-time communications role at the Chamber of SMEs (GRTU), an influential business organization representing small and medium enterprises in Malta.

Demicoli built his career within the PN's media structures, most notably through Net TV. Over several years, he occupied senior positions, including head of news during Simon Busuttil’s tenure as PN leader and later as head of programmes under Adrian Delia’s leadership. His longstanding association with the PN and subsequent appearances on Labour-affiliated ONE TV—alongside his brother, broadcaster Keith Demicoli—prompted speculation over his political leanings and professional motivations.

Contract details and working arrangements

Documentation released under Malta’s Freedom of Information Act reveals that Demicoli’s contract with Infrastructure Malta was signed in September. The contract provides a monthly remuneration of €1,500 for 30 hours of consultancy services per week. Additionally, Demicoli is entitled to €50 per hour for any overtime work he performs under this consultancy.

This arrangement raises critical questions about his ability to meet the full-time obligations of his position at the Chamber of SMEs, where a standard work schedule typically exceeds 40 hours per week. Despite the high demands of both positions, no formal clarification has been issued regarding how Demicoli balances these dual responsibilities or whether the arrangement complies with public sector employment norms or contractual obligations at the Chamber.

Involvement of Infrastructure Malta CEO Steve Ellul

Demicoli’s appointment to the consultancy role is reported to have been facilitated by Infrastructure Malta CEO Steve Ellul. Ellul, who previously ran as a candidate for the Labour Party in the European Parliament elections, assumed leadership of Infrastructure Malta during a period marked by increased scrutiny over the agency’s management of public contracts and appointments.

The connection between Demicoli and Ellul has not been publicly disclosed in any official statements, but individuals familiar with the appointment process suggest that Ellul played a pivotal role in securing Demicoli’s consultancy.

Reaction and implications for public perception

This appointment has drawn attention among political observers and members of civil society. The juxtaposition of a former PN media strategist receiving a government consultancy—particularly through a direct order and amid overlapping full-time commitments—has led to broader discussions regarding the transparency and fairness of public sector appointments in Malta.

While no formal legal wrongdoing has been established in connection to this contract, questions persist about whether Infrastructure Malta is applying consistent standards in its procurement and hiring processes, particularly given the political sensitivities surrounding the individuals involved.

Broader pattern of consultancy appointments at Infrastructure Malta

Demicoli’s appointment reflects a wider pattern at Infrastructure Malta, where a number of well-known figures have secured high-paying consultancy roles. Among the most prominent is Gabby Mallia, a procurement and EU funds specialist. Mallia has received direct orders for nearly all of the agency’s EU-funded projects over the past five years, with earnings estimated to exceed €1 million during that period.

Other notable consultants linked to Infrastructure Malta include:

Veronique Dalli, sister of current Energy Minister Miriam Dalli. She was recently passed over for a judicial appointment to the European Court of Justice, yet has held various government-related consultancy roles.

Antoine Zammit, an architect affiliated with Studjurban, a firm associated with several large and often controversial development projects. Zammit’s involvement in public infrastructure planning has led to questions regarding potential conflicts of interest.

Jonathan Scerri, former chairman of Enemalta, Malta’s national energy provider. His consultancy role raises further questions about revolving-door dynamics between state agencies and their former leadership.

These appointments have drawn criticism from transparency advocates, who argue that direct orders and consultancy contracts are often awarded without competitive procedures, resulting in the perception of favoritism or political patronage.

Political overtones and shifting allegiances

Over the past several years, Demicoli's public image has shifted notably. Once viewed as a staunch Nationalist supporter, his presence on Labour Party media platforms led to speculation of a shift in political allegiance. While no public declaration has been made, critics from both political camps have questioned his motivations and whether political connections are influencing his professional trajectory.

Supporters argue that professional evolution and diverse engagements across political boundaries are not uncommon and should not automatically imply bias or impropriety. However, the appointment remains controversial due to its opaque circumstances and timing, especially in light of Demicoli’s dual roles in both public and semi-public institutions.

Legal and ethical considerations

From a legal standpoint, the legitimacy of Demicoli’s consultancy hinges on multiple factors, including compliance with labor regulations, conflict of interest rules, and contract transparency guidelines within Infrastructure Malta and the Chamber of SMEs. Although no public complaint or lawsuit has yet been filed, the situation highlights the ongoing need for clear and enforceable standards governing secondary employment and government contracting.

Public officials and government contractors are typically expected to avoid overlapping commitments that could impair their performance or present ethical concerns. In this context, the apparent overlap in Demicoli’s professional engagements may warrant closer review by oversight authorities or the Commissioner for Standards in Public Life, especially if complaints are lodged by concerned stakeholders.

Institutional transparency and public trust

This incident underscores a broader issue within Malta’s public administration: the continued reliance on direct orders and non-transparent contracting practices. While such arrangements are not illegal per se, they tend to erode public trust, particularly when individuals with political affiliations or public visibility receive preferential treatment.

The matter is especially sensitive in Malta, where institutional integrity and governance standards remain under scrutiny from both local watchdogs and international observers. Ensuring that appointments and contracts are awarded based on merit, transparency, and due process is critical to restoring public confidence.

Conclusion

Fabian Demicoli’s appointment as a consultant to Infrastructure Malta, despite an existing full-time role at the Chamber of SMEs, raises a number of legitimate concerns relating to transparency, accountability, and potential conflicts of interest. While no formal finding of impropriety has been made, the manner in which the appointment was facilitated—reportedly by a former Labour candidate and current Infrastructure Malta CEO—adds a political dimension that further complicates public perceptions.

The episode serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for strong institutional safeguards and transparent hiring practices in the public sector. Whether this case prompts further inquiry or regulatory reform remains to be seen, but it clearly illustrates the reputational risks that can arise from opaque contracting processes involving politically connected individuals.

FAQs

Who is Fabian Demicoli?
Fabian Demicoli is a former head of news and programmes at Net TV, associated with Malta’s Nationalist Party media. He now holds consultancy and communications roles with Infrastructure Malta and the Chamber of SMEs.

What is Demicoli’s role at Infrastructure Malta?
He is contracted as a public relations consultant for Infrastructure Malta, earning €1,500 monthly for 30 hours of weekly work, plus potential overtime.

Does Demicoli still work at the Chamber of SMEs?
Yes, Demicoli reportedly continues to hold a full-time communications position at the Chamber of SMEs while simultaneously working for Infrastructure Malta.

How did he obtain the consultancy contract?
The consultancy is believed to have been facilitated by Infrastructure Malta CEO Steve Ellul, a former Labour MEP candidate.

Is there a conflict of interest in holding two roles?
While not definitively illegal, holding both roles simultaneously may raise concerns over workload conflicts and public sector ethics.

Has Demicoli changed political sides?
Though previously associated with the Nationalist Party, Demicoli has appeared on Labour-aligned platforms, prompting speculation over his political stance.

Are there other consultants at Infrastructure Malta?
Yes, several consultants, including Gabby Mallia, Veronique Dalli, Antoine Zammit, and Jonathan Scerri, have been engaged by Infrastructure Malta in recent years.

How much are consultants like Gabby Mallia earning?
Mallia is estimated to have earned over €1 million in five years through direct orders tied to EU-funded projects.

Is the consultancy process competitive?
Critics argue that many of these contracts are awarded without open calls or tenders, raising transparency concerns.

What steps could be taken to improve transparency?
Implementing competitive bidding processes, enhancing disclosure obligations, and involving independent oversight could strengthen public confidence.