The Planning Authority and its Chairman’s decision to remove two banners calling for justice in the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia breach the right of freedom of expression and was unbecoming in what was meant to be a democratic country.

The court, presided over by Madam Justice Lorraine Schembri Orland, over the PA to pay €20,000 compensation to the Caruana Galizia family.

The banner was removed on 7 April after it was erected on a  building in Old Bakery Street, Valletta. The banner read:

“Why aren’t (chief of staff) Keith Schembri and (minister) Konrad Mizzi in prison, police commissioner? Why isn’t your wife being investigated by the police, Joseph Muscat? Who paid for Daphne Caruana Galizia to be blown up after she asked these questions?”

During the sittings, it was revealed that the PA’s executive chairman Johann Buttigieg ordered its removal.

In a statement following the decision, the Caruana Galizia family said:

“We hope that today’s important judgement inspires people to demand that the government respects the law and the inalienable rights of its citizens. We hope, too, that the government will use its power to ensure – and not inhibit – justice for Daphne.”

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