The family of Nicolette Ghirxi has called for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding her murder by her ex-partner. Her former lawyer Joseph Borda, along with two members of the Ghirxi family, expressed their desire for an inquiry “to establish the facts leading to her tragic death.” In response, the OPM announced that the Independent Police Complaints Board would review the conduct of the police force. Their demands come a week after the 48-year-old was found stabbed to death in her Swatar, Birkirkara apartment. Her ex-partner, Edward Johnston, who had been harassing her for months, was later shot dead by police after a three-hour standoff in St Julian’s. Borda urged the PM and the home affairs minister to initiate an inquiry “similar to the one launched following the murder of Bernice Cassar in November 2022.” (Times of Malta)
Judge orders AG to indicate basis for Vitals freezing orders values
The Criminal Court has granted a request to summon several experts who assisted the inquiring magistrate in the Vitals Global Healthcare investigation, to testify and clarify how the amounts specified in the resulting freezing orders were determined. Madame Justice Edwina Grima presided over hearings in two cases brought by Jean Carl Farrugia, Kevin Deguara, Deborah Chappell, and Kenneth Deguara, challenging the multi-million-euro “seize and freeze” orders issued against their assets following the conclusion of the Vitals inquiry. The judge also directed the Attorney General to specify the sections of the inquiry that served as the basis for determining the amounts in the freezing and seizure orders. (The Malta Independent)
Labour President not running for re-election
Labour Party President Ramona Attard has announced that she will not be running for re-election in the upcoming internal elections next month. In a message on her Facebook page, Dr. Attard mentioned that many, including the Prime Minister, had encouraged her to stand for the position again. However, she explained that after four years in this PL administrative role, she is ready to take on new opportunities.
