‘A Big Blow For Minority Voices’: Outcry As Andrew Azzopardi’s RTK103 Show Gets Pulled
The abrupt axing of Andrew Azzopardi’s long-running RTK103 programme Għandi Xi Ngħid has sparked backlash from public figures and activists, many of whom are questioning the motives behind the decision and warning of broader implications for independent current affairs programming in Malta.
The station, operated by Beacon Media Group, claimed the decision was based on the expiration of Azzopardi’s contract and a strategic shift toward “a fresh format” with a stronger religious focus.
Independent politician Arnold Cassola described the move as “a great surprise” and “a big blow for minority voices” who are often excluded from party-aligned platforms like ONE and NET.
“In my humble opinion, the Church station is shooting itself in the foot,” he said.
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“If it is now going to concentrate only on religious content, it risks losing scores of thousands of listeners and will thus become irrelevant.”
Veteran broadcaster Peppi Azzopardi didn’t hold back either. In a direct message that appeared aimed squarely at RTK, he said, “I don’t believe that Andrew Azzopardi’s programme was stopped because they want to do something different. Sorry, but no one is believing you and I’d be amazed if you even believe yourselves.”
Andre Callus from Moviment Graffitti called the decision deeply concerning, saying it reflects a broader issue in the Maltese media landscape.
“It is very concerning that in our country, spaces on TV and radio for current affairs discussions, especially those not dominated by the two major parties, are disappearing at an alarming rate.”
Azzopardi’s programme, known for sparking honest and sometimes uncomfortable debate, provided one of the few remaining spaces for conversations that crossed party lines and amplified public concerns.
In his own farewell, Azzopardi called the decision “unexpected and deeply surprising,” but made it clear that this was “no last dance.”
The final episode of Għandi Xi Ngħid is set to air on 29th June.
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