A pride flag hanging at the entrance of the establishment was torn down and ripped for the third time.

“This attack is not just against a piece of fabric; it is a direct act of hatred targeting a community, an identity and the fundamental right to exist,” a statement released by KAKTUS reads. 

“We, as the owners of this space, its regulars, as citizens, and as queer people living in this country, want to live in a Malta where everyone feels safe, accepted, and valued. But this morning, once again, we saw that some people still view our existence as a threat and feel entitled to respond to that threat with violence.”

The KAKTUS team went on to call for a broader cultural shift, urging Maltese society to embrace diversity rather than fear it.

“We must stop trying to silence, suppress, or erase one another and instead find ways to live side by side, with equal rights and shared safety.”

The “KAKTUS Family” concluded by saying it is proud to be part of the queer community and will continue to welcome people of all ages and identities with love and respect.

“We do not intrude on anyone’s life – we simply exist in our own space, living our truth. That’s all.”

“Infuriating” – Mayor John Pillow

Sliema Mayor John Pillow commented on the act of vandalism, calling it “heartbreaking and infuriating”.

Writing on social media, Pillow said that an attack on the rainbow flag is an attack on love, dignity, and the right to exist.

“To my friends at KAKTUS and to the wider queer community: you are seen, you are valued, and you are not alone.”

Pillow went on to say that hate has no place in Sliema – or anywhere in Malta for that matter.

“We must stand together against ignorance and violence, and defend a society where everyone feels safe to be who they are. Love will always be stronger than hate. Always.”

LGBTIQ+ NGO MGRM also shared a message of solidarity with KAKTUS, saying that acts like these are the reason Pride is not just a celebration, but a protest.

“Pride exists because queer people are still being threatened, marginalised, and made to feel unsafe in our own spaces.”

MGRM further thanked Pillow for his allyship, assuring that it makes a difference.

“Visible support is powerful, and we are glad to see political figures showing solidarity.”

Meanwhile, former PL MEP Cyrus Engerer similarly condemned the attack, saying the flag was torn by someone who “couldn’t stomach what it stands for: visibility, equality, freedom”.

Engerer thanked founder Deryder for hanging the flag and told the person who ripped it that they “will not win”.