Opposition Leader Bernard Grech said that “now is the moment of truth” after Chris Fearne announced he was stepping down as Deputy Prime Minister, a decision that was rejected by the Prime Minister Robert Abela.

“Chris Fearne’s letter of resignation, in which he said he is stepping down because he respects the institutions, proves that Robert Abela is only concerned with saving his own skin,” Grech said.

“Robert Abela is wrong when he insists that high-ranking public officers who are facing criminal charges should remain in their job. He is also wrong when he continues to attack the institutions.”

“Robert Abela only cares about saving his own skin and hasn’t yet recognised the moment we are living in, and now developments aren’t taking place thanks to Robert Abela but despite him.”

“This is an irreversible process that must take place, and it would be wrong of Abela to try and stop it.”

Grech reiterated his call for Central Bank Governor Edward Scicluna and Economy Ministry permanent secretary Ronald Mizzi, both of whom are also facing charges in connection with the Vitals magisterial inquiry, to resign from their roles.

“Everyone who is facing charges in this case and occupies any public position must resign or be removed,” he said.

“Now, more than ever before, we have proof of the importance that the magisterial inquiry, which is currently only in the hands of Robert Abela and Joseph Muscat, be published so that the people know the full truth. This is the moment of truth.”