President warns against pressures on justice pillar
President Myriam Spiteri Debono emphasised that no pressure, from any source, should be exerted on the pillars of justice during her speech on Republic Day on Friday. She cautioned against overstepping boundaries, particularly in relation to the Law Courts, the Office of the Attorney General, and the Police. These three institutions, she noted, are tasked with the vital role of administering justice. The President warned that any form of pressure on these institutions is perilous, regardless of intent. “Even good intentions can pave the way to hell,” she remarked. Spiteri Debono also highlighted the introduction of laws designed to enhance citizens’ access to remedies in cases of perceived injustice, as well as legislation aimed at strengthening scrutiny and discipline within governance. (The Malta Independent)
Ambassador says OSCE event highly successful
Malta is set to take on a more prominent role in international relations following a highly successful term chairing the OSCE, the world’s largest regional security organisation, according to Malta’s ambassador to the group. Natasha Meli Daudey, Permanent Representative to the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe, affirmed that the country “should and will play a bigger role in international relations.” Reflecting on Malta’s achievements, Meli Daudey, who also serves as ambassador to Austria, expressed pride in the nation’s performance. “We demonstrated what a small country is capable of, and I say this with immense pride. The feedback I’ve received consistently highlights that Malta has truly made its mark,” she said. She noted that Malta had surpassed expectations during its OSCE chairmanship. “We were tasked with simply keeping the organisation functioning at a basic level, yet we went above and beyond that,” she remarked. (Times of Malta)
Low birth rate tops Archbishop’s concerns in Republic Day homily
Archbishop Charles Scicluna marked the 50th anniversary of Malta as a republic with a homily addressing the nation’s low fertility rate and the factors contributing to it. Delivering his message during a special Republic Day Mass, Scicluna began by reflecting on Malta’s achievements over the past five decades. He expressed gratitude for the country’s progress and paid tribute to its democratic institutions, recognising the contributions of dedicated politicians, public servants, the judiciary, and law enforcement. The Archbishop also acknowledged the increasingly significant role of civil society, NGOs, and faith-based organisations in shaping the nation’s identity and future. “We should reflect with gratitude on the progress made in the democratic institutions of our Island State,” Scicluna said, emphasising the efforts of countless individuals who have contributed to building modern Malta.
