Tista' taqra bil- Malti.
Over 200 academics from the University of Malta have joined forces in a collective statement to defend judicial independence in Malta amid recent attacks against the judiciary by government.
The statement expresses deep concerns over what the academics perceive as ongoing attacks on the Maltese judiciary, particularly highlighting the targeting of a specific magistrate who conducted a sensitive magisterial inquiry on a topic of national interest.
“These attacks undermine the independence of a critical institution. An impartial judiciary is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy, ensuring justice is served without fear or favour. We firmly believe that the truth is essential for a just society. Only when institutions, including the judiciary, can function independently and without intimidation can the truth be revealed. ” the statement stressed. To date, 206 academics have signed the statement.
This initiative comes in response to Prime Minister Robert Abela’s criticisms of the judiciary, notably his accusation that the judiciary is engaged in “political terrorism,” particularly following the magisterial inquiry into the fraudulent hospitals’ privatisation deal.
Abela’s remarks have drawn widespread condemnation from numerous organisations, including the signatories of this statement.
The academics strongly condemned any attempt to deflect scrutiny through attacks on the institutions responsible for upholding the rule of law. They reiterated their collective commitment to upholding the Constitution and fostering a climate where accountability and transparency thrive, rather than political expediency.
“We call upon all who value a just and democratic Malta to join us in condemning these attacks and reaffirming our unwavering support for an independent judiciary,” the statement concluded.
Abela’s recent attacks on the judiciary, particularly targeting Magistrate Gabriella Vella, have sparked widespread condemnation.
The completion of her inquiry into the fraudulent hospitals’ deal has resulted in serious criminal charges being levelled against key figures in the Labour government, including Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne and former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.
Various organisations have criticised Abela’s direct assault on the judiciary and journalists, especially following a contentious press conference where he accused Newsbook Malta of being aligned with the so-called “establishment,” which he blames for his government’s legal woes.
Responding to these developments, Malta’s President Myriam Spiteri Debono has called for prudence and restraint to ensure the courts and judiciary can function in a calm and peaceful environment, emphasising the importance of upholding the integrity of Malta’s legal system amid growing tensions.
