Target: Robert Abela, Prime Minister of Malta
Goal: Guarantee an independent, merit-based Animal Welfare Commissioner answerable to Parliament following the unexplained non-renewal of the incumbent.
Animal-welfare groups have raised alarm after the Animal Welfare Commissioner’s contract was not renewed without any public explanation, despite indications the incumbent wished to continue. Advocates say this opaque decision has fueled fears of political interference in an office meant to scrutinize neglect, hoarding, and cruelty. The appointment of a replacement has intensified calls to safeguard the post from real or perceived pressure.
When a watchdog role can be reshaped behind closed doors, confidence in the system suffers—and animals ultimately pay the price. Campaigners have urged that the Commissioner be answerable to Parliament, that appointments be transparently merit-based, and that fixed terms and removal-for-cause safeguards prevent any retaliation for robust enforcement. Without these protections, future commissioners may feel constrained when pursuing difficult cases, as has been publicly alleged by activists.
To restore public trust and protect vulnerable animals, Malta should codify the Commissioner’s independence. The government should also consult independent experts and civil society in setting the office’s mandate and ensuring adequate resources. These reforms would directly address the reportedly unexplained non-renewal and ensure that oversight remains vigorous and free from undue influence. Demand a clear, published selection process; fixed, staggered terms; cause-only removal; transparent annual reporting to Parliament; and a formal requirement to publish reasons for non-renewal.
PETITION LETTER:
Prime Minister Abela,
We are deeply concerned by reports that the Animal Welfare Commissioner’s contract was not renewed and that this occurred without any public explanation. This opaque decision has fueled fears of political interference in a role that must be able to confront neglect, hoarding, and cruelty wherever they arise.
We respectfully urge you to champion reforms that will protect the office from real or perceived pressure. Specifically, please support legislation making the Commissioner answerable to Parliament; establish a transparent, merit-based appointment process; set fixed terms with removal only for defined cause; and require public reasons for any non-renewal. We further ask that you ensure adequate resourcing and formal consultation with independent scientists, legal experts, and animal-welfare NGOs.
Finally, we ask your office to provide a clear public explanation of the recent non-renewal and to affirm that future decisions regarding this post will not be influenced by partisan or administrative considerations. These steps would help restore public confidence and ensure that the Commissioner can pursue robust, evidence-based oversight in the best interests of animals and the Maltese public.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Dkwikiedt
