The on-going shambles in the police department, the Corradino Correction Facility, the extreme liberality in keeping guilty criminals in circulation, are all the evidence that is needed to persuade even the most blinkered that there is an insurmountable conflict of interest when a prominent very successful criminal defence lawyer is engaged to double up as a cabinet minister in charge of those departments.

Ghax kines balla voti lejh.

This is the most naive thing I have read today. The proof of wrong-doing is not the only requirement. The perception of potential conflict is enough.

[Daphne – Thank you, Raphael. I wear myself out trying to explain such basic things, and many times I just give up.]

Touche (please imagine an accent on the e).

His position as chief of all the police and the secret service is untenable. Just the perception of this conflict and his vulnerability demands that he either steps aside or be given a different portfolio.

He does….have all the tutelage at his disposal. He is their lord and master.

Perhaps he went to source?

My point exactly.

Since I am pretty sure the lawyer would require payment, this would surely be made in cash, and with loads of such clients, could mount up quite a bit…

Oh, a few phone intercepts would be enough for a conviction. That would be up to the Security Service. Which is staffed by Manuel Mallia’s chosen friends.

Who wouldn’t push the investigation too far because a not guilty verdict would suit the lawyer just fine.

On second thoughts, best not investigate too deeply. Just convict a few dope-growers and impose the maximum sentence instead. Once again, Malta has been saved. All hail the fuzz.

It could have been Anglu Tuks Fors Farrugia until Jason threw a hissy fit and scuppered Tuks’ chances.