Tuesday, October 31, 2017

PM cannot keep ignoring the people, Chief Justice, Opposition and the media - Michael Briguglio

Leading Civil Society Network member Michael Briguglio has insisted that the Prime Minister "cannot continue to ignore the voice of the people, the Chief Justice, the Opposition and the independent media."

In comments to The Malta Independent, Briguglio said between 10,000 and 15,000 people are attending the demonstrations. In light of this, the PM cannot simply keep ignoring everyone except his own party.

Since the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia, the Civil Society Network has held two events, one in Valletta and the second in Sliema. The group is calling for the resignations of the Police Commissioner and Attorney General and for their replacements to be chosen with a two thirds parliamentary majority.

Briguglio said that, "with the people choosing to speak up twice, the message to the Prime Minister was clear: these have been the two biggest civil society protests in Malta." He added that such large numbers were usually seen in cities like Brussels, London or Paris, which have much larger populations. "The message was clear and the Prime Minister should really act."

Asked how the speakers at the events are chosen, Briguglio said all speakers at the two Sunday demonstrations were approved by the Caruana Galizia family.

He added that CSN makes sure to ask speakers from all political backgrounds.

"Let's make it very clear we have asked many labour leading speakers to participate; however they have all refused. There were some who did not get clearance from their employers, some who did not want to speak for different reasons. Maybe some were afraid. Certain individuals felt there was too much political pressure for them to speak."

Briguglio added that finding people to speak at the events has proved to be quite a challenge.

All those who spoke focused on the call for resignation of the police commissioner and AG and they all represented a wide range of voices, according to Briguglio.

"As a civil society we take on anyone who wants to work with us, whether they are blue, red, orange, green or those who don't support any political party at all. That is a key part to the civil society network, and all those are who are ready to support the cause are welcomed."

Asked if another protest will be held, Briguglio said this was still being discussed, keeping in mind that Daphne Caruana Galizia's funeral will be held this week. 



from The Malta Independent http://ift.tt/2xCvl1b
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