A highly disputed decision to remove these trees was fiercely protested yesterday when Callus was arrested for trying to drag down a barrier separating demonstrators from the works. The demonstrations carried through till this morning when activists were seen emerging from their tents which they slept through the night to show just how far they would go to fight this move.

Eventually, Mosta mayor Chris Grech decided not to go through with the uprooting of these trees, rendering this protest a success for the public.

So, Callus used this moment as an opportunity to remind the public just how much their voices matter.

“The lessons we have learned: from the golf course in Verdala, the access to Manoel Island, Hondoq ir-Rummien, iz-Zonqor, petrol stations in ODZ, the Marina yacht in Wied il-Għajn, the private pontoon in Balluta, among many others…and today the trees of Mosta!”

“It is true that there are those who feel omnipotent. It is true that there is a lot of greed here. And it is true that we have corrupt authorities that do not work for the common good. But it is also true that there are thousands, tens of thousands, who want change, who are ready to work for it, and who are able to achieve it.”

“With the heartbreak of the people, only those in power and those who want to make money enjoy it.
On the other hand, our collective efforts can shake those in power and lead to environmental and social justice,” he concluded.

Despite the success, a protest planned yesterday for this evening will still be held, now with three goals:  – to celebrate the victory, to call for Grech and the council to shoulder responsibility for the “obscene decision they took and that was only reversed thanks to public resistance”, and to request a reform in ERA, which is “clearly not serving its function to safeguard the environment”.

Stay tuned on Lovin Malta for exclusive footage and images from this evening’s protest.

Did this protest’s outcome inspire you?