Promotions at the AFM

It is becoming increasingly evident, that in the next weeks a substantial number of persons will be given promotions in the Armed Forces of Malta. Under normal circumstances there is nothing wrong with giving promotions, but the fact that these are being given on the eve of an election, could have political implications.

An order to set this process in motion was given at a time when the commanding officer was still investigating allegations of injustice in the promotions given out last year. So much so, that in the last few weeks, he authorities were put under pressure to solve a particular case of alleged injustice, to avoid any possible criticism from the Ombudsman’s office, the media as well as in the courts of law. This has become a frequent occurrence, with soldiers and officers having to resort to such measures in search of justice, at a great sacrifice for them and their families.

In recent years and indeed in recent months, it has been worrying to note that transfers from one AFM establishment to another have been given specifically to allow certain members of the Armed Forces, well known for their allegiances to GonziPN, to be better placed for further promotions. These actions have turned certain establishment into non-military ones, without having a real impact on the needs of the AFM in today’s world.

The Labour party is being kept of developments and will remain vigilant to the goings-on at the Armed Forces. Recent instructions arising from the Administration division of the AFM and from certain GonziPN people in the high government positions, will be constantly monitored.