Martin Micallef has been appointed chairman of the Broadcasting Authority, taking over from George Mifsud who passed away before he could assume the reins after his appointment.

A graduate in mass communication, Mr Micallef worked at PBS for several years and also served as general secretary of the Malta-Italy chamber of commerce.

He also worked for the international Mediterraneo TV service.  

The Nationalist Party said Mr Micallef's appointment was made without the consent of the opposition and reflected the actions of an irresponsible caretaker prime minister who was deepening an institutional crisis. 

It said Dr Muscat was only interested in controlling the national broadcaster and to use it to corrupt the truth.

The prime minister should have opted for persons with experience in the post, such as former chairmen Anthony Tabone or former Chief Justice Joe Said Pullicino.