NGOs, pressure groups, political parties and individuals on Saturday expressed their profound concern and unequivocal opposition to proposed Bill No. 125, which seeks to fundamentally alter the procedures governing magisterial inquiries. This legislative proposal, currently under consideration, poses a grave threat to the foundations of democratic principles, including transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of justice.
The implications of these proposed amendments are deeply troubling and give rise to serious questions about the future of justice and the rule of law in Malta, the groups said.
The bill alters citizen inquiry requests, requiring police pre-approval (within six months) before a judge can consider an inquiry request. This delays justice and deters reporting.
The bill imposes also a two-year deadline for inquiries, after which materials are handed to the Attorney General regardless of status. It also requires court-admissible evidence for inquiry requests, potentially excluding credible leads.
Clause 11 dismisses pre-2025 citizen-filed requests without a final decision, undermining ongoing efforts and denying justice.
The Chamber of Advocates and Chamber of Commerce have publicly shared these concerns, together with acclaimed judicial dignitaries, noting weakened judicial oversight and restricted citizen access to inquiries.
The groups urged the government to suspend the legislative process, engage in meaningful dialogue and preserve judicial independence.
This bill is a step backwards for democracy, the groups said.
This statement is endorsed by the following organisations, listed in alphabetical order:
ADPD - Sandra Gauci
BirdLife Malta - Caldon Mercieca
Daphne Caruana Galizia Foundation - Corinne Vella
Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar - Astrid Vella
Friends of the Earth - Martina Camilleri
Kopin - William Grech
Kunsill Studenti Universitarji - Emma Degabriele
Indipendenti - Matthew Borg Cuschieri
Momentum - Katya Compagno
#occupyjustice - Joanna Agius
PMP - Silvan Agius
Residenti Beltin - Billy J McBee
Sliema Residents Association - Anna Maria Baldacchino
VOLT - Arnas Lasys