Valletta: Hundreds of people demonstrated in the Maltese capital Valletta after a wealthy businessman was found not guilty of masterminding the murder of an investigative journalist. The verdict on Daphne Caruana Galizia’s car-bomb killing in 2017 sparked outrage from Maltese civil society groups and international media freedom organizations. The opposition Nationalist Party, which organized the demonstration late on Wednesday, has said lawmakers should be called back from their summer break for a special session of the legislature to discuss the case.
According to France24.com, the acquittal has intensified public anger and raised concerns about the effectiveness of the justice system in Malta. Many protestors carried placards demanding justice for Caruana Galizia, whose work focused on corruption and organized crime. Her murder had previously led to widespread calls for accountability and transparency within the Maltese government.
The demonstration, organized by the Nationalist Party, highlighted the deep political divisions in the country. The opposition party called for an urgent parliamentary session, aiming to address the implications of the verdict and ensure that justice is served. The case has gained international attention, with media freedom organizations expressing solidarity with Caruana Galizia’s family and calling for a thorough investigation into her murder.
The Maltese government has not yet responded to the calls for a special parliamentary session, and it remains to be seen how the political landscape will be affected by the public’s reaction to the acquittal. The case continues to be a focal point for discussions on media freedom and the rule of law in Malta.