LIVE: Abela calls urgent press conference amid government turmoil

Prime Minister Robert Abela has scheduled an urgent press conference for 5 pm in response to the tumult within his government following the news of criminal charges filed against his predecessor, Joseph Muscat.

Earlier today, the disgraced former prime minister took a swipe at his successor, Robert Abela, warning that failure to address his legal problems could result in severe judgment from the electorate in the upcoming June elections.

Muscat’s remarks followed news of impending criminal charges against him, alleging breaches of his right to a fair hearing by the police and attorney general.

“Those who have tarnished themselves with this injustice or turned a blind eye to its resolution will face severe judgment from the people in the short term, from justice in the long run, and from history everlasting,” Muscat warned on Facebook.

Prosecutors from the office of Attorney General Victoria Buttigieg have brought criminal charges against Muscat, Konrad Mizzi, Keith Schembri, and several other individuals and entities.

These charges, reportedly encompassing corruption and fraud amounting to €30 million, are expected to be addressed via summons rather than arrest, indicating that the accused will appear in court at their arraignment without facing immediate custody.