Politicians should not take over abortion debate – PM Prime Minister Robert Abela has urged politicians to step back from discussions on abortion following President Myriam Spiteri Debono’s suggestion of a referendum as the fairest approach to the matter. Last year, the government attempted to pass a bill introducing limited exceptions to the Criminal Code for terminating pregnancies in cases where a woman’s life or health is endangered. However, after seven months, the government revised the bill to permit abortion only when the woman’s life is at risk. bela emphasized on Monday that abortion is a sensitive topic and suggested that it shouldn’t be a subject for political debate. He stressed the importance of addressing the issue openly, stating, “I believe that the country cannot keep sweeping this discussion under the rug.” (Maltatoday)
Degiorgio brothers charged after refusing to testify
Two brothers, previously convicted for the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, have been charged with contempt of court for defying a legal order to testify in the case against Yorgen Fenech. Alfred and George Degiorgio, serving 40-year prison sentences as hitmen, were directed to provide testimony in Fenech’s trial for complicity in the 2017 murder. However, during the reopened compilation of evidence, both refused to testify despite being ordered by presiding magistrate Rachel Montebello. Alfred Degiorgio argued that, given ongoing constitutional challenges to their trial, he was presently opting not to testify. Despite the magistrate’s explanation that he had no legal alternative but to comply with the court order, Degiorgio maintained his refusal, citing their legal action before the constitutional courts. (Times of Malta)
NGOs urge MEPs to block Migration Pact
Two NGOs have called on Maltese MEPs to opppose the proposed EU Migration and Asylum Pact, characterizing it as historically significant for unfavorable reasons. In their letter, JRS Malta and the aditus foundation implore MEPs to oppose the Pact. They assert that a political consensus has been achieved regarding the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, with the final step being the upcoming vote on April 10th. Despite more than three years of deliberations and continuous proposals for reform, the EU institutions present this as a momentous agreement. However, the NGOs argue that the Pact will exacerbate human suffering and diminish protections for refugees and migrants, making it historically significant but for all the wrong reasons. (The Malta Independent)
