PD calls for more open consultations on Constitutional Convention

Partit Demokratiku yesterday called for more open consultation on Constitutional Convention, saying it was “voted into Parliament promising Constitutional reform and good governance and to represent sectors of society otherwise ignored”.

Since it had two MPs elected, the party said it has never ceased to uphold its role as Malta’s political watchdog and serve as the “People’s Seats”.

As such, PD yesterday stressed that it is “imperative that the wishes of the electorate be respected and that, as the third party in Parliament, Partit Demokratiku should participate in the Constitutional Convention and open it up beyond the remit of elite insiders”.

PD said in a statement: “Malta has a Constitution written by gentlemen for gentlemen. In the past, the spirit of the law was honoured, yet nowadays, it is evident that we need to ensure fully independent institutions and electoral reform to prevent the abuse of power of cliques of entrenched and corrupt elites.”

Partit Demokratiku said it will soon be writing to the President of Malta asking for full participation in the Convention not only for PD, but also for representatives of the general public from across civil society, academia and other strata of the general public.

“The participation of experts in a fully independent capacity without any strings attached is non-negotiable for the process to be a success.”

Partit Demokratiku also said it will “respect and champion the recommendations of the Venice Commission”.

In preparing this letter to the President, Partit Demokratiku said it will be seeking input from civil society, NGOs, experts and other relevant bodies and groups.

“The process of reforming the Constitution belongs to all Maltese, as it must not be a Constitution for the discredited political class. It must be a Constitution in service to all.”