[WATCH] Activists Occupy Castille demanding end to ‘normalisation of abuse of power’

Activists Occupy Castille demanding end to ‘normalisation of abuse of power’

Activists Occupy Castille demanding end to ‘normalisation of abuse of power’

A group of female activists calling themselves Occupy Justice have set up tents in Castille square where they intend to remain until Sunday, with aim of having demands they are making met by the government.

Around ten tents have so far been pitched in the square, with more expected over the course of the weekend.

The demonstration is being held in wake of the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia last week and is being supported by Civil Society Network, ADITUS, Integra Foundation, Gender Equality Malta, SOS Malta and The Critical Institute.

Addressing those present, Maria Pisani of the Integra Foundation said that Caruana Galizia’s assassination had “exposed beyond doubt, the worrying state of our nation, a condition brought about by the failure of government to recognize the importance of good governance and robust institutions”.

Photos: James Bianchi/MediaToday

She insisted that many had now woken up to the realisation that there was a “glaring need for change”, and one which requires leadership, integrity and “effective decisions”.

The activists reiterated the demands made by the Civil Society Network, insisting that both the Police Commissioner and the Attorney General (AG) needed to resign their posts immediately in order for the country to properly heal.

“The AG, and the Commissioner of Police, need to be replaced by non-divisive, competent persons who enjoy the trust of all,” said Pisani, adding that the country’s recent history had shown this not to be the case.

Photos: James Bianchi/MediaToday

Furthermore, she said that in addition to the removal of the Commissioner and the AG, the country’s institutions needed to be strengthened and could no longer be “held hostage“ by the political class. “They must be, and importantly, be seen to be independent and upholding the rule of law.”

“But our statement today is not just to place demands on the political class,” she said. “It is a call to the people. For too long has our nation been shackled by a culture of impunity, nepotism, and the normalisation of abuse of power. It is time to hold our Government, our political parties and our parliament to account.”

Finally, the activists urged the government to undertake the necessary constitutional reforms for there to be an effective separation of powers, with Parliament, the Law Courts and Government able to operate freely and without fear or favour.

“We want change in the ways things are being done. We want safety, protection, honesty, transparency and integrity. We want out faith restored in our country, in our future, in our children’s future. And we want it to start now. At this rate, no political party can save us.”

Caruana Galizia's sons expressed their gratitude to those present by sending take-away pizzas as well as a bay leave from the late journalist’s garden.

“Bay leaves are a symbol of strength and courage. These are from our mother’s garden. With our support and gratitude. Matthew, Andrew and Paul Caruana Galizia,” read a short message from Caruana Galizia’s sons.