VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The fifth anniversary of the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia was commemorated by a series of events that ended with thousands of activists attended the monthly Vigil for Truth and Justice, held in Valletta. Throughout the event, activists held a large banner hailing Daphne as a Maltese hero.
This year’s anniversary came two days after brothers George, 58 and Alfred Degiorgio, 56 were jailed for 40 years each after pleading guilty to their involvement in the murder.
The President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola was the first to address the vigil. She declared that Daphne Caruana Galiziàs weapon was journalism as a means of power to reveal corruption. While adding that Daphne was always led by the principle “of doing what is right”, she appealed to those present to be inspired by what have already achieved. “There is still a lot for us to work on to ensure truth and justice,” Metsola said.
The President of NGO Repubblika Robert Aquilina declared that the civil society will continue to fight in order “to ensure justice for the corruption she revealed and for what Daphne Caruana Galizia was killed for”.
Maria Falcone, sister of Judge Giovanni Falcone, killed by the mafia in the May 23, 1992 attack in Capaci, had been invited by the NGO Repubblika to partecipate in the commemorations for the fifth anniversary of the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia. While she highlighted that her native Sicily has suffered immensely under the mafia, she urged the crowd to not just realise what a horrific evil the mafia was, but also “the even greater evil that lies in the ties between the mafia and politics.” She quoted one of her brother’s famous quotes – that one should do their duty whatever cost and sacrifice it entailed, because therein lies the essence of human dignity – as she insisted that both her brother and Daphne had exemplified this spirit.
Early in the afteroon a silent gathering was held at Bidnija at the site where investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, 53, was assassinated in a car bomb. Hundreds of activists joined the European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and anti-mafia activist Maria Falcone.
During a morning political activity, Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela said that Malta must learn from the dark chapter that led to the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia. While addressing Labour supporters in ?a?-?ebbu?, Abela added “Daphne Caruana Galiziàs homicide was among the darkest chapters of this country’s history, and we would be wrong if we think we can forget or erase that moment from Maltàs past.” Earlier last week, Abela said he would not be attending any of the Daphne Caruana Galizia memorial events over the weekend.
Nationalist Party and Opposition leader Bernard Grech while addressing a political activity in Mosta, insisted that the Maltese government had yet to learn any lessons from the “traumatic” assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia and is still determined to silence its critics, including journalists.
During a morning event, international press organisations and NGOs gathered outside Caruana Galiziàs residence to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the journalist’s murder. They declared that the lack of implementation of the recommendations made by the Public Inquiry into Daphne Caruana Galiziàs assassination is “unacceptable”.
Meanwhile, in a mass marking the fifth anniversary of the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia, Archbishop Charles Scicluna appealed to the public to make sure that any murder could not be dismissed as “business as usual” – as George Degiorgio, one of her murderers had said in an interview he gave to a Reuters journalist. The mass was celebrated at the Holy Family Church in Bidnija, where Daphne had lived and where she was killed.

– photo Agenziafotogramma.it –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Maltàs Labour government and the Nationalist Opposition are insisting on the need that truth and full justice must prevail following yesterday’s unexpected turn in court during the trial of the Degiorgio brothers as half way through the first day of their trial, they pleaded guilty to their involvement in the murder of Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. George and Alfred Degiorgio were sentenced to 40 years in prison each. Caruana Galizia was killed in a car bomb on 16 October 2017. After the judge walked out from the courtroom, George Degiorgio turned round on Caruana Galiziàs family asking: may I address you? While he got a firm no, he said “all I wanted to do is apologise.” Then, his brother, Alfred Degiorgio stood up and stressed that they wanted to apologise, and added whoever wants to know, we can tell the truth from beginning to end.
Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela described the 40-year prison sentence as “an important step forward, to deliver justice in a case that represents a dark chapter in Maltàs history.” In a statement, Robert Abela added, “there are now three individuals found guilty of this homicide who have been condemned to imprisonment. Another three individuals are awaiting trial.” While reiterating the government’s commitment to deliver full justice to the Caruana Galizia family, and to the Maltese people, Abela expressed his appreciation to all the authorities “who have already worked hard and who will continue to work on this case.” The Maltese Premier declared that the government will continue to support the authorities as they carry out their duties and will continue implementing important reforms to strengthen further the rule of law principles and democracy in Malta.
Opposition leader Bernard Grech said developments in court on Friday were another step towards justice for Daphne Caruana Galizia. “We have to continue striving for truth and justice to prevail,” said Grech, adding that only this can help heal the nation.
Speaking outside the court on Friday evening, the son of Daphne Caruana Galizia, Matthew said “I’m relieved that they have been convicted and sentenced. Now it’s about the remaining cases,” in reference to the impending trials of alleged mastermind Yorgen Fenech and the two men who allegedly provided the bomb that killed his mother.
Anti-corruption NGO Repubblika said that the admission by two men of their involvement in the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia is only a small step towards full justice.

foto: agenziafotogramma.it

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Maltàs Labour government and the Nationalist Opposition are insisting on the need that truth and full justice must prevail following yesterday’s unexpected turn in court during the trial of the Degiorgio brothers as half way through the first day of their trial, they pleaded guilty to their involvement in the murder of Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. George and Alfred Degiorgio were sentenced to 40 years in prison each. Caruana Galizia was killed in a car bomb on 16 October 2017. After the judge walked out from the courtroom, George Degiorgio turned round on Caruana Galiziàs family asking: may I address you? While he got a firm no, he said “all I wanted to do is apologise.” Then, his brother, Alfred Degiorgio stood up and stressed that they wanted to apologise, and added whoever wants to know, we can tell the truth from beginning to end.
Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela described the 40-year prison sentence as “an important step forward, to deliver justice in a case that represents a dark chapter in Maltàs history.” In a statement, Robert Abela added, “there are now three individuals found guilty of this homicide who have been condemned to imprisonment. Another three individuals are awaiting trial.” While reiterating the government’s commitment to deliver full justice to the Caruana Galizia family, and to the Maltese people, Abela expressed his appreciation to all the authorities “who have already worked hard and who will continue to work on this case.” The Maltese Premier declared that the government will continue to support the authorities as they carry out their duties and will continue implementing important reforms to strengthen further the rule of law principles and democracy in Malta.
Opposition leader Bernard Grech said developments in court on Friday were another step towards justice for Daphne Caruana Galizia. “We have to continue striving for truth and justice to prevail,” said Grech, adding that only this can help heal the nation.
Speaking outside the court on Friday evening, the son of Daphne Caruana Galizia, Matthew said “I’m relieved that they have been convicted and sentenced. Now it’s about the remaining cases,” in reference to the impending trials of alleged mastermind Yorgen Fenech and the two men who allegedly provided the bomb that killed his mother.
Anti-corruption NGO Repubblika said that the admission by two men of their involvement in the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia is only a small step towards full justice.

foto: agenziafotogramma.it

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – In unexpected turn on the first day of the trial by jury, the two brothers accused with the killing of Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia five years ago, have admitted to all the accusations.
Alfred, 57 and George Degiorgio, 59 – were sentenced to 40 years each in prison following a plea deal reached between the defence lawyers and the proscution. The Magistrate also ordered them to pay 43,000 euros in expenses within three years, and ordered that the equivalent of around 50,000 euros each in crimnal proceedings to be confiscated.
The son of Daphne Caruana Galizia, Paul, in his first reaction described the admission of the Degiorgio brothers as “a break in the clouds”.
Following this morning’s proceedings, the two brothers have informed their legal representatives about their admission in exchange for a more lenient sentence, and to avoid life imprisonment.
During the morning session, the Prosecution gave a detailed account about the movements of the burner phones used by the accused and how these phones were in connection with their mobile phones which triggered the car explosion that killed Daphne Caruana Galizia. Following this information, the accused spoke to their legal representatives who later informed the Prosecution about the decision taken by the two brothers.
The judge has ordered a psychiatrist to confirm they can plea guilty, and a joint application was signed by all parties. A psychiatrist and a medicolegal expert assessed the accused.
Alfred and George Degiorgio were among 10 people arrested two months after the killing of Caruana Galizia. They were found in a hideout in Marsa during a raid by special forces.
Vince Muscat was the first accused who had admitted his involvement in the assassination and is serving a sentence of 15 years in prison.
Maltese businessman Yorgen Fenech, who is charged with association in the murder, is undergoing proceedings in Court.
Robert Agius and Jamie Vella are accused of having provided the bomb that killed Caruana Galizia. They are held under arrest at the Correctional Facility in Kordin.
The President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola said that today’s development “is not justice, it’s a small step”. On Facebook, she remarkes that it’s been half-a-decade of agony for Daphnès family and for Malta. “Daphne still cannot write her blog, enjoy her children and grandchildren, potter in her garden or be with her loved ones. Now for those who ordered and paid for it, those who protected them and those who spent years doing everything imaginable to try to cover it up”.

– foto Agenziafotogramma.it –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – In unexpected turn on the first day of the trial by jury, the two brothers accused with the killing of Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia five years ago, have admitted to all the accusations.
Alfred, 57 and George Degiorgio, 59 – were sentenced to 40 years each in prison following a plea deal reached between the defence lawyers and the proscution. The Magistrate also ordered them to pay 43,000 euros in expenses within three years, and ordered that the equivalent of around 50,000 euros each in crimnal proceedings to be confiscated.
The son of Daphne Caruana Galizia, Paul, in his first reaction described the admission of the Degiorgio brothers as “a break in the clouds”.
Following this morning’s proceedings, the two brothers have informed their legal representatives about their admission in exchange for a more lenient sentence, and to avoid life imprisonment.
During the morning session, the Prosecution gave a detailed account about the movements of the burner phones used by the accused and how these phones were in connection with their mobile phones which triggered the car explosion that killed Daphne Caruana Galizia. Following this information, the accused spoke to their legal representatives who later informed the Prosecution about the decision taken by the two brothers.
The judge has ordered a psychiatrist to confirm they can plea guilty, and a joint application was signed by all parties. A psychiatrist and a medicolegal expert assessed the accused.
Alfred and George Degiorgio were among 10 people arrested two months after the killing of Caruana Galizia. They were found in a hideout in Marsa during a raid by special forces.
Vince Muscat was the first accused who had admitted his involvement in the assassination and is serving a sentence of 15 years in prison.
Maltese businessman Yorgen Fenech, who is charged with association in the murder, is undergoing proceedings in Court.
Robert Agius and Jamie Vella are accused of having provided the bomb that killed Caruana Galizia. They are held under arrest at the Correctional Facility in Kordin.
The President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola said that today’s development “is not justice, it’s a small step”. On Facebook, she remarkes that it’s been half-a-decade of agony for Daphnès family and for Malta. “Daphne still cannot write her blog, enjoy her children and grandchildren, potter in her garden or be with her loved ones. Now for those who ordered and paid for it, those who protected them and those who spent years doing everything imaginable to try to cover it up”.

– foto Agenziafotogramma.it –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The Maltese health authorties are encourging those over 55 years and those considered as vulnerable to take both the influenza and the Omicron booster vaccine as this year’s strain of influenza is expected to be harsher. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health Chris Fearne added that the vaccination programme will start on October, 17 and this will be offered annually. He said that individuals with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, persons living in institutions, healthcare workers, and children aged between 6 months and 5 years will be given priority during the first two weeks. The vaccination programme will be made available free-of-charge for all on Monday 31 October. Minister Fearne confirmed that the Omicron variant is currently affecting the Maltese population. So far, four patients are receiving treatment due to COVID-19, altough there are no persons at the intensive care unit. Malta has registered over 115,000 positive casesa and 806 deaths due to COVID-19. He appealed to the public to take all the necessary mitigation measures, which he said are recommended despite not being enforced by law. These include the washing of hands frequently, staying at home when sick and avoiding closed public spaces when sick.
(ITALPRESS).
-photo credit agenziafotogramma.it-

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Maria Falcone, sister of slain judge Giovanni Falcone, will be in Malta on an invitation of the non-governmental organisation Repubblika to participate in the commemorative activities to mark the fifth anniversary since the assasination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.
Maria Falcone will join the activities which will be held on 16 October, to mark the fifth anniversary of the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia that will include a vigil in Great Siege Square in Valletta, where she will make a speech.
Falcone, a law professor, is the sister of Giovanni, an Italian judge who was assassinated by the mafia in Capaci, Sicily on 23 May 1992. Over the past 30 years, Maria Falcone has worked on promoting a culture of justice against the mafia both in Italy and internationally. In 1992, she founded Fondazione Falcone which is recognized by the United Nations for its valuable social and civic contribution.
Fondazione Falcone and Repubblika will also be co-hosting a seminar on 15 October 2022 at the university campus in Valletta to discuss the challenge of having public institutions which work within a framework of rules that encourage behaviour of public officials where their integrity is never questioned.
credit photo agenziafotogramma.it
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA/MNA) (ITALPRESS) – The Malta Football Association declared this afternoon that the national team head coach Devis Mangia has been reported to the police over alleged sexual misconduct. Mangia was temporary relieved of his official duties last week after a national team football player reported him over alleged sexual misconduct. The Italian coach has denied the accusations. A second national team player later made similar allegations. Mangia was seen leaving to Italy last week, however, MFA president Bjorn Vassallo clarified that the national team head coach did not escape to Italy but was making use of his pre- booked leave. Last week, the Malta Football Association convened for an urgent meeting during which the executive board endorsed the decision on his temporary suspension and the matter was referred to the Association’s Safeguarding Board to investigate.
In a statement issued on Monday afternoon, the Malta Football Association confirmed that it reported the allegations to the police. The MFA said it is “actively” and “constantly” evaluating all developments in relation to the case. “Although, this case still revolves around allegations, the seriousness of the claims makes it imperative for the Association to seek guidance from both FIFA and UEFA, adopting the same approach used in cases related to integrity issues in international football,” the association added. The statement came after NET News reported an interview which appeared first in Romanian media, after the mother of Razvan Popa told GSP LIVE that her son was sexually harassed by Mangia when he was coaching League 1 at Craiova University.
– foto agenziafotogramma.it –
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The European Commission approved a derogation in favour of Malta to maintain the production of electricity to its current level. Therefore, the Maltese authorities will not be reducing the consumption of electricty as being forced by the EU Commission on the rest of the EU states.
Malta and Cyprus managed to convince the European Commission because of their particular geographic position, cut off from mainland Europès energy markets, with only Malta is linked with an undersea interconnector connected with Sicily.
Maltàs Energy Minister Miriam Dalli declared that the Commission appreciated Maltàs great dependence on electricity and there will not be a 10% reduction as applied to other Member States. In other EU countries it means consumers will have to decrease their use of electricity.
Minister Dalli said the Maltese Government will continue working on discussions with the EU Commission to implement new energy initiatives and to control the price of gas throughout the EU while not being dependent on the use of Russian gas.
This is the third derogation obtained by the Maltese government since last August when the Energy Council said the mandatory 15% reduction of gas consumption does not apply to Malta and last year another derogation was negotiated so that the gas pipeline from Malta to Sicily qualifies as a project of common interest.

– foto Agenziafotogramma.it –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe is proposing several measures to the Maltese authorities which will provide more integrity and political transparency by public officials.
The proposals were made public during the presenation of the fourth report published by OECD aimed at strengthening standards of public life and provide greater Government transparency in Malta. The report was jointly prepared together with Commissioner for Public Standard George Hyzler.
The OSCE is suggesting among other recommendations a change in the Code of Ethics for Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries as well as all Members of Parliament.
It is also proposing that the Maltese Members of Parliament should not have secondary employment with Government.
Another proposal is the setting up of a register in which all Members of Parliaments will declare all gifts, benefits and donations given to them and their relatives, and even those that are not accepted. The OSCE is also recommending that the Commissioner for Standards in Public Life should decide whether the gifts should be accepted, or not and that there should be a limit on the value of gifts.
Carissa Munro, Policy Analyst with OECD also said, “we are recommending that the Government adopt a Law on the regulation of lobbying, that it focuses on the issue of transparency, both who is lobbying who, on what issues and also that incorporates issues of integrity so that public officials will know what it means to uphold integrity standards when they engage with lobbyists and third parties”.
Munro added that Malta faces the further issue of being a small country and its Parliament operates part-time, hence the reasons for the proposals.
(ITALPRESS).
– photo by Department of Information –

Source: medNews