One of Malta’s richest men, Yorgen Fenech, has been found not guilty of involvement in the murder of anti-corruption journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The verdict, delivered on October 4, 2023, is expected to be appealed by the prosecution and represents a significant setback for those advocating for press freedom in Europe.
Background
Nearly nine years after Caruana Galizia’s death in a car bombing in October 2017, a jury of six women and three men acquitted Fenech of both charges: complicity in her voluntary homicide and association with the intention of committing a crime. The verdict was announced at 7:30 PM, leading to gasps from the gallery and cheers from Fenech’s relatives, as the forewoman revealed an eight-to-one majority decision.
As the judge, Edwina Grima, ordered Fenech’s release from custody, Caruana Galizia’s family reacted with shock, some in tears. If convicted, Fenech would have faced a life sentence.
““Everybody is much more at risk now, because this signals you can kill journalists with impunity,” said Corinne Vella, Caruana Galizia’s sister.
Reactions
In a Facebook message, Caruana Galizia’s eldest son criticized the jury's decision, stating it was a “terrible decision” that the country may never recover from. Opposition leader Alex Borg called for the urgent reopening of parliament to discuss the verdict, emphasizing that journalism is the backbone of democracy.
