Heritage Malta Chair Mario Cutajar Organizes Labour Party Exhibition Amidst Partisanship Debate

Introduction: Leave of Absence Sparks Controversy

Mario Cutajar, the current Chairperson of Heritage Malta, has recently taken a leave of absence from his official duties to organize a Labour Party exhibition in Malta. The exhibition, titled 'l-Ewlenin', commemorates the 105th anniversary of the Labour movement's establishment. This decision has ignited a public debate regarding the potential use of national heritage resources for partisan activities and the impartiality expected of public officials holding significant national roles.

'l-Ewlenin' Exhibition and Official Involvement

The exhibition, 'l-Ewlenin', is being held at the Labour Party headquarters in Hamrun and was inaugurated by Prime Minister Robert Abela. Reports indicate that the exhibition features a sophisticated setup and design, drawing comparisons to recent exhibitions organized by Heritage Malta itself. Cutajar's direct involvement in organizing this partisan event while holding the chairmanship of the national heritage agency has been described by some Heritage Malta officials as an 'unprecedented act of partisanship'.

Questions of Resource Allocation and Impartiality

The controversy primarily revolves around concerns about the financing of the Labour Party exhibition and whether any resources belonging to Heritage Malta, such as staff or suppliers, were utilized in its organization. When questioned by media outlets regarding these concerns, Mario Cutajar did not provide a direct response. An automated email reply indicated that he was 'out of office with irregular access to the internet'. Critics argue that it is inappropriate for the head of Malta's national heritage agency to personally engage in such a distinctly partisan activity, raising questions about the separation of public office from political party affiliations.

Mario Cutajar's Extensive Public and Political Background

Mario Cutajar has a long and notable career in Malta's public service and strong ties to the Labour Party. He is recognized as a 'veteran Labour militant'. Prior to his appointment as Chair of Heritage Malta in June 2022, Cutajar served as the Head of the Civil Service (Principal Permanent Secretary) from 2013 until his retirement in May 2022, a role he held under former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. He also previously held an executive director position on Heritage Malta's Board of Directors and, in 2008, won an Employment Commission case for political discrimination when his appointment as Head of Visitors' Services at Heritage Malta was not renewed.

Conclusion: Ongoing Scrutiny of Public Office and Partisan Roles

The organization of the 'l-Ewlenin' exhibition by Heritage Malta Chairperson Mario Cutajar has brought to the forefront discussions in Malta concerning the boundaries between public service responsibilities and partisan political engagement. The event continues to draw scrutiny regarding the ethical implications of a national heritage agency's leader dedicating time and potentially resources to a political party's event, underscoring the ongoing debate about impartiality in public office.