Yorgen Fenech's lawyers have every right to defend their client using every means the law provides, but they have "no right to expect us to be afraid and remain silent", Repubblika said Friday.

Replying to a statement in which Fenech's lawyers threatened legal action, the NGO said it respected the verdict of the jury and the constitutional role of the courts. "We have never said otherwise. But a verdict of acquittal does not erase the evidence heard in court, nor does it oblige citizens to forget what Yorgen Fenech himself said - in the recordings of his police interrogation and when he testified under oath at his trial. We heard him. All of Malta heard him."

The NGO said that for years, those who have demanded truth and accountability following the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia "have been insulted, threatened and sued, and attempts have been made to make them feel alone.
"We are not alone. And anyone who tries to come after us one by one, isolate us and frighten us into silence will not succeed in silencing us, nor will they make the questions disappear.

On Wednesday, 16 September, people will gather in Valletta at 7pm, peacefully, lawfully and in solidarity: with Daphne Caruana Galizia's family, with journalists, with one another, and with the principle that in a democracy citizens have every right to demand truth, justice and accountability, Repubblika said.

"Anyone who thinks they can frighten this movement into silence with threats can come and see for themselves on Wednesday."