Updated | Republic Street transformed into ‘wedding’ venue

The youth movement in favour of divorce StandUP organised a faux wedding, with the intent to urge voters to vote in favour of the introduction of divorce in Malta.

Much to the amusement of passers-by, local actors Chrysander Agius and Kristabelle Catania, playing the part of Joe Camilleri and Maria Borg, walked all the way from Auberge de Castille, through Republic Street and up to St George’s Square, where a small reception was then held.

The story of the 'couple' goes something like this: Joe and Maria have been in a relationship for seven years. After his first marriage failed, Joe found true love with Maria. They have been living together for two years, and would like to get married and have a family. However, the laws in Malta do not permit such a scenario to date.

With a wedding booklet, they say "no cash gifts are being requested but ... Your yes vote on the May 28, would be appreciated".

Addressing the crowd which gathered around in St George’s Square, Agius said the activity was a “serious manifestation” to stand up for those who are “suffering in silence”.

Agius argued that with a ‘Yes’ vote during the referendum, voters will be helping those who want a second chance in life to get happily married to do so:

“Why a person who has long been separated and is now happy and in love with a new partner is denied the right to remarry? I am voting yes because I do not have the courage to give a cold shoulder to those who I know are suffering in silence.”

Nikita Alamango, spokesperson of the movement, said a change in the law will also give the chance for children to be brought up in an environment which is regulated by law.

“Where a marriage has failed, the couple does not want to have anything to do with one another, years have passed, they have moved on to separate lives, and yet state still calls them ‘married’,” Alamango said. “With divorce, persons like Joe and Maria will be given the chance to make their dream come true.”