International Federation of Journalists demands impartial investigation into Caruana Galizia murder

The International Federation of Journalists call for 'impartial investigation' which covers more than just 'superficial evidence'

Daphne Caruana Galizia
Daphne Caruana Galizia

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the world’s largest organisation for journalists, has asked for an independent investigation into the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia.

While welcoming the progress made in terms of charging the three suspects this week, the organisation emphasized the importance of an unbiased investigation.

The reaction comes after the arrest of ten suspects on Monday and the arraignment of brothers George and Alfred Degiorgio, and Vincent Muscat, who faced charges of criminal use of explosives, being involved in organised crime, and criminal conspiracy.

However, Caruana Galizia’s family has filed a legal claim and complained that the investigation has not been impartial due to the connection between a senior police investigator, Silvio Valletta, and a government minister, Justine Caruana, who are married to each other, and who have both been criticised by the journalist on her blog. Claims were also made that the investigations only focuses on forensic evidence and ignores financial transactions which could uncover key evidence.

The General Secretary of IFJ said that “Although we join our affiliate in welcoming the recent arrests and charges against these suspects, and due to the claims of Daphne’s family, we urge for an independent and impartial investigation to be done, not only covering the superficial evidence of the killing but also going until the very end of the information Daphne was digging into. A proper fair trial would be the best tribute to honor her memory and her legacy following all the years she has worked as an investigative journalist in Malta.”

The IFJ has joined its affiliate, the Institute of Maltese Journalists (IMJ) in this endeavour. The IMJ has also welcomed the recent this week’s developments in the case but has also called on the government to consider tougher penalties against persons who commit crimes of any kind against journalists.