October brings back two names that Europe must not reduce to mere anniversaries: Anna Politkovskaya, the Russian journalist murdered in Moscow 20 years ago, in October, and Daphne Caruana Galizia, the Maltese investigative journalist killed in Malta nine years ago, also in October.
This year, the European Parliament’s commemoration of Daphne Caruana Galizia has been overshadowed by a new twist in the legal proceedings. On 2 September, a jury acquitted Maltese businessman Yorgen Fenech of charges of complicity in her murder and criminal conspiracy. On 22 September, the Attorney General appealed the verdict, while an investigation into possible misconduct by jury members has further undermined confidence in the trial.
What remains of justice when people have been convicted of carrying out the murder itself, but responsibility for commissioning it continues to be contested in court? And what does this case tell us about the protection of journalists in Europe?
Matthew Caruana Galizia is the son of the Maltese investigative journalist and chairs the foundation established in her memory. Daphne Caruana Galizia was killed when a bomb planted in her car exploded.
“Our top priority at the moment is to fight for a retrial, because there were serious problems with the trial over the summer, particularly with the selection of the jury. So this is the most important issue for us right now. I see no reason why there should not be a retrial,” he told the BNR on the live "Strasbourg Calling" programme from the European Parliament in Strasbourg. He added:
“One of the most troubling aspects of our justice system is that jurors are not required to explain why they reached a particular verdict. This means they can base their decisions on corruption or prejudice without facing any consequences.”
According to him, Malta’s institutions remain crippled and unable to provide society with the democracy and freedom it needs.
“It is not enough for the Attorney General simply to bring charges. The justice system itself must deliver fair outcomes,” Matthew Caruana Galizia stressed, adding:
“And if we cannot obtain fair outcomes, then Parliament and the government should step in and amend the legislation so that fair outcomes become possible.”
Irina Nedeva’s full interview with Matthew Caruana Galizia was aired on the BNR's Horizon channel and can be heard HERE.