The spirit in which we publish this leading article is exactly the same as the first installment, in terms of condemning personal attacks on people who are involved in the divorce debate.

Yesterday we said that the anti-divorce movement has embarked on a campaign of attacks on members of the pro-divorce movement. We again declare, in no uncertain terms, that we are against the vilification of individuals.

But we feel we must clarify a point or two. The launch of the billboards campaign by both the Yes and No camps has coincided with the launch of campaigns by anonymous people who are disseminating propaganda images. Those are the images we were referring to in yesterday’s issue.

We also point out, as we reported last week, that there are also people who are imposters, and who have tried to wrongly influence the debate by posing to be priests in favour of divorce. Again, in no uncertain terms, this is to be condemned.

The point is further underscored in the way that the images we refer to above have been made to look very similar to the physical billboards around Malta and Gozo. Yesterday we said that the anti-divorce movement had stooped to a new low in the content of the images being disseminated. In saying that they were involved, along with other quarters including the PN, we were wrong, and for which we must apologise, unreservedly.

The Malta Independent daily and its sister publications have made their stance clear, that they are in favour of the introduction of divorce as a civil right; however, we are also striving to participate in a fair discussion which is balanced. We have also made a point of giving ample space to all concerned, reporting on all events in a balanced and faithful manner.

But we reiterate, the personal attacks and gutter-sniping must stop. This is a debate which is about families and pain, not groceries. Malta always becomes highly-charged when a vote is due to be taken, and this time, it is no different. Passion rises and tempers flare. But we must remember, throughout all this, that this is an issue of personal circumstance and families who are in pain.

The debate must continue and it must continue in a civilised manner. While the lobby groups have a job to do, so does the media.

Our job is to continue to report all that is said in this very important time, faithfully and correctly. In this line of reasoning, we felt it was our duty to publish this piece.