Jeremy Harbinson is a critical witness in the ongoing court proceedings concerning the hospital concession. This was confirmed by the Attorney General’s office during the hearing, which included charges against various individuals, such as former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. There were continued discussions about the testimony Harbinson has yet to provide.
Lawyer Franco Debono emphasized that Harbinson is not a missing person or an elusive witness but an expert appointed by the Court. Debono elaborated that Harbinson’s contributions were foundational to the charges brought forth. Before the inquiry concluded, Harbinson and his team visited Malta without issue, despite concerns over their hotel expenses. However, challenges to his presence in Malta arose only as he prepared to testify. Debono noted that a sovereign court cannot permit such conduct.
Dr. Franco Debono
Lawyer Charles Mercieca highlighted that the Attorney General recognizing Harbinson’s indispensability means he must testify in person, in line with European Court of Human Rights standards. He criticized the nine-month delay in sending letters rogatory to Switzerland, which were incorrectly executed according to Swiss law, questioning if this inefficiency would replicate if directed at Harbinson. Mercieca emphasized that a timely hearing is a fundamental right under the European Court of Human Rights, reiterating that Maltese law sets a six-month completion timeframe for letters rogatory.
Jeremy Harbinson
Representing former Prime Minister Muscat, Lawyer Vince Galea urged the Court to consider the financial strain on the accused due to the ongoing freezing orders and to prompt the Attorney General’s office to act more swiftly.
At the hearing’s start, Galea informed Magistrate Rachel Montebello that messages on Dr. Muscat’s phone were personal and work-related, irrelevant to current charges. Galea requested the Court ensure these messages remain private, drawing parallels with the Court’s previous protections on confidentiality.
Joseph Muscat
Galea reminded of prior leaks during the inquiry and the necessity of a binding decision to prevent further unauthorized disclosures. Acknowledging Muscat’s influential position, Galea underscored the significant public interest surrounding him. The defense is also restricted from commentary due to court orders. Galea clarified that the only parties with access to these messages are Dr. Muscat’s defense team and the Attorney General’s Office.
Sam Sittlington
Lastly, lawyer Stefano Filletti commented on an email from expert Sam Sittlington to the Court, inaccurately associating a blogger with all defendants, reflecting Sittlington’s intentions without basis for such a conclusion.
