Cabinet secretary sues Jason Azzopardi over claims about Resident Permit bribes

Ryan Spagnol is taking legal action against Jason Azzopardi, alleging that the cabinet secretary solicited bribes in exchange for residence permits. Recently, the former PN MP has posted multiple claims on Facebook, accusing Spagnol—who formerly oversaw residence permits at Identity Malta—of participating in a racket that expedited ID cards for cash.

On Friday, Spagnol, through a government statement, announced he had initiated libel proceedings via his lawyer, Chris Cilia. He "publicly and immediately" refuted "all sorts of allegations or insinuations," expressing his desire for the proceedings to "clear his name as soon as possible." He also urged the court to handle the case urgently.

In response to the libel action, Azzopardi reiterated on Facebook that by suing him, Spagnol had opened a Pandora's box. "Bravo. Well done. Welcome... we will meet," the former MP wrote.