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Malta Acquittal: Journalist Murder Case Sparks Outrage
4 Sep
Summary
- Yorgen Fenech was found not guilty in the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia.
- The verdict sparks fears of impunity for killing journalists in Europe.
- The case highlights struggles to protect press freedom across the EU.
A Maltese court has acquitted Yorgen Fenech, a wealthy businessman, of complicity in the 2017 murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. The verdict concluded the nation's longest-ever murder trial, lasting 55 days, and has sent shockwaves through Malta and the European Union.
Caruana Galizia's family and press freedom advocates have condemned the acquittal, with her eldest son calling it "justice denied." The sister of the slain journalist stated the verdict "signals you can kill journalists with impunity." Five other individuals were previously convicted for carrying out the assassination.
The case has garnered significant international attention, highlighting concerns about the safety of journalists and the fight against corruption. The "Daphne Project," a collective of journalists, was formed to continue her investigations into corruption at the highest levels.
The acquittal has prompted calls for legislative action across Europe, including the implementation of laws to protect journalists from strategic lawsuits against public participation (Slapps). The European Parliament has been urged to push member states to adopt such measures.
