Auditor’s Exit in Vitals Scandal: Who’s Next?

In the heart of Malta’s financial district, at the bustling Republic Street, the offices of the Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA) have been abuzz with whispers since news broke of a high-profile resignation. Joseph Cuschieri, the auditor at the centre of the Vitals Global Healthcare scandal, has stepped down from his role at the MIA.

From Vitals to Resignation

Cuschieri’s name first hit the headlines in 2016 when he was appointed as the independent auditor for VGH, the company awarded a controversial 30-year concession to run three public hospitals in Malta. The deal, struck under the previous Labour administration, was shrouded in secrecy and has since been mired in allegations of corruption and cronyism.

Cuschieri’s role was to ensure that VGH’s accounts were in order, a task that became increasingly complex as the scandal unfolded. In 2019, the National Audit Office (NAO) released a damning report, alleging that the VGH concession was awarded without a competitive tender and that the government had overpaid for the service by at least €27 million.

Cuschieri’s resignation comes amidst calls for his removal following the NAO report. Opposition parties have been vocal in their criticism, accusing him of not doing enough to uncover the truth behind the scandal. Cuschieri, however, maintains that he acted within his professional boundaries.

Reactions and Consequences

News of Cuschieri’s resignation was met with a mix of surprise and satisfaction. The Malta Union of Journalists (MUJ) welcomed the move, stating that it was “long overdue.” The opposition Nationalist Party (PN) called it a “victory for common sense,” while the ruling Labour Party (PL) remained tight-lipped.

Cuschieri’s resignation has raised questions about the independence of the auditing profession in Malta. The MIA, which regulates the profession, has been criticized for not doing enough to ensure that auditors act in the public interest. The MIA has since announced a review of its code of ethics, but many remain skeptical about its effectiveness.

Cuschieri’s resignation is just the latest twist in the Vitals scandal, which shows no signs of abating. The new government has promised a full investigation into the deal, and many are hoping that this will finally bring some closure to the issue.

As for Cuschieri, he has stated that he will continue to practice as an accountant. However, his future in public life remains uncertain. Many are watching to see who, if anyone, will be the next to fall in the wake of the Vitals scandal.

“This is not the end,” said one political commentator. “This is just the beginning of the end.”