Daphne Caruana Galizia Murder Inquiry Ought To End Next Week, Robert Abela Says
The public inquiry into the assassination of Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana ought to end next week, the Prime Minister said today.
Originally scheduled to conclude on 15th September, the inquiry had requested a three month extension seeing as courts were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is now scheduled to finish listening to witnesses on 15th December, but the board could request a further extension if it feels the need to listen to more witnesses.
“The inquiry has until the 14th/15th of December before it comes to an end, I am faithful the inquiry board will have come to a close on that inquiry,” Robert Abela said today.
When asked if it could receive another extension, he said “my position is clear”.
“The inquiry board ought to close, it’s been given enough time, and its closing date was the extension date requested by the board,” Abela responded.
The inquiry started last December, 12 months ago, following major pressure from the Caruana Galizia family, as well as the Council of Europe and international organisations.
Serving judge Abigail Lofaro, Chief Justice Emeritus Joseph Said Pullicino and retired judge Michael Mallia make up the board. They are investigating whether the government, or any state entities, failed to prevent the murder of Caruana Galizia.
Last week, the board even grilled former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat.
Businessman Yorgen Fenech, currently remanded in Corradino Correctional Facility, is being charged with planning the assassination.
What do you think the inquiry will find?
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