Repubblika has condemned the decision of the Speaker of the House of Representatives to reject the Opposition's request to discuss the Ombudsman's report on the situation in prison.

"We are concerned that the people's representatives are not being allowed to debate a serious matter that affects fundamental rights. Furthermore, this decision once again sends the message that Parliament does not give importance to the work of the Ombudsman-an official of Parliament, unanimously appointed by the MPs precisely to investigate shortcomings in public administration," Repubblika said

Decisions like these remind us of others in the past that history has proven to be wrong, Repubblika added.

"The decision by the Speaker is even more concerning as it forms part of a series of decisions that, in our opinion, are turning Parliament into a mere rubber stamp for the Government rather than the institution responsible for scrutinizing the Government's work. Our country's Constitution provides that Parliament should act as the watchdog over the Government, not its protector; Parliament is sovereign, while the Government is merely its servant."

The claim that Parliament is the highest institution in the country and the guardian of democracy and the well-being of all citizens is empty rhetoric if it is not allowed to fulfill its duty of overseeing the executive's actions, the group said.

"Another worrying aspect of the Speaker's decision is that it confirms that Parliament is systematically disregarding inhuman and degrading treatment of people who have been deprived of their liberty for various reasons. This includes not only individuals serving prison sentences but also those awaiting trial, irregular migrants held in detention centers, and patients at Mount Carmel Hospital." Time and again, the public becomes aware of mistreatment or degrading and inhumane conditions in these facilities, the group added.

Repubblika said that custodial systems that violate the dignity and rights of those they are meant to look after are not just signs of bad administration; "they often indicate that the State is heading towards a broader denial of fundamental human rights."

"What happens today in a prison, a detention center, or a mental hospital could become the norm for everyone tomorrow. Therefore, we urge people not to fall into the trap of thinking that what happens in prison should not concern them. We also appeal to all MPs who value human dignity to renew the call for Parliament to discuss the Ombudsman's report."