The Lands Authority in Malta has chosen not to publish audits of land deals, maintaining a level of opacity in its land management practices. This decision comes despite the Authority’s commitment to transparency and innovation, as reflected in its 2024 Annual Report theme, “Site Maps”. The report highlights the Authority’s focus on mapping out clear strategies to drive progress and modernize operations. However, the lack of transparency in land deal audits raises concerns about accountability and potential misuse of power.
In the past, the Lands Authority has implemented mechanisms to address issues related to land ownership and ground rent redemption. For instance, Legal Notice 216 of 2019 introduced a mechanism for redeeming ground rent for land belonging to the Government of Malta or the Lands Authority under a title of revisable perpetual emphyteusis. This move aimed to provide clarity and facilitate transactions related to land ownership.
The decision not to publish land deal audits may be seen as inconsistent with the Authority’s stated commitment to transparency. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of existing mechanisms for ensuring accountability and good governance in land management. As the Authority continues to play a crucial role in shaping Malta’s land management landscape, its approach to transparency and accountability will likely remain a topic of interest and debate.
