Thousands this evening attended a vigil in Sliema that was spontaneously organised after the brutal killing of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. Several people, at the same time, attended a vigil in front of the Maltese High Commission in London. There was a somber atmosphere, with many tearful people in the crowd. Not much noise could be heard, despite the presence of thousands.
People from all walks of life carried candles and remebered the journalist who was killed this afternoon soon after she left her home.
Politicians, ex politicians and also former Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi are taking part in this silent walk in Sliema that started from it-Torri up to Spinola Bay.
Former Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi called on people to feel emboldened and speak out against what is wrong to honour the life of Caruana Galizia.
"When I heard the news I did not want to believe it, it is something that not only shocked me but the whole nation. In addition to considering the hardship that the Caruana Galizia family is enduring, it is a national tragedy. Malta lost a journalist with extraordinary courage who in difficult moments managed to put her arguments forward despite knowing the risks involved.
"At this moment, as a people, we must realise that the best way to honour her is by standing up against what is wrong, and we should not be afraid to speak up. We must insist on our institutions - which we spent so many tireless years to set up – to carry out their constitutional duties. I think this tragedy should open everybody’s eyes to ensure that values of dignity and integrity find there right place," said Dr Gonzi.
People attending the vigil told The Malta Independent that they were shocked and can't believe that this happned. A woman told this newsroom that, " after what happened today, we do not fell safe anymore in our own country."
Another person said that, "we hope that the institutions do their job properly and rule of law prevails."
As the walk drew to its end, many laid candles by the iconic Spinola ‘Love’ sign. Following this, hundreds of people crowded around the street blocking cars from passing, sat down on the ground clapping in defiance of the heinous murder. The crowd began to chant “justice, justice!” while also urging members of the press to carry on the work Caruana Galizia is so famously known for.
Family friend Luke Frendo said a few words at the request of the Caruana Galizias.
“Matthew Caruana Galizia asked me to say a few words on behalf of them and the cause. This is undoubtedly a dark and sad day for Malta. This is definitely the saddest day in my life as long as I have lived. As a Maltese citizen, she was not only a journalist but a fearless human being and the fourth pillar of our democracy.
Former Nationalist Party leader Simon Busuttil, PN leader Adrian Delia, outgoing deputy leaders Mario de Marco and Beppe Fenech Adami laid candles in solidarity with the Caruana Galizia family.
Former Gzira local councillor Joseph Muscat was left “speechless” and “emotional” at this afternoon’s events: “For these things to happen....I still call my country catholic Malta, so for these things to happen...”
Professor Vivienne Cremona, when asked about her feelings when receiving the news, said:
“I was incredulous, I feel I have no trust at all in our political leaders, the judiciary and the police force, so I hope that the PM’s words about an independent inquiry are genuine, and that these three institutions have nothing to do with it".
Pictures by Baskal Mallia