Thousands of people from all walks of life gathered in Valletta today for a national demonstration in the wake of the brutal murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia.

Led by a giant banner that demanded ‘Justice’, a giant wave of Maltese flags, pictures of the murdered journalist, and homemade signs with demands packed Republic Street from end to end.

The march, organised by the Civil Society Network headed towards the Maltese courts, where a stage was set up in front of a Maltese flag. Michael Briguglio, Robert Napier, Manuel Delia, James Debono, a representative of Reporters Without Borders, and Claudine Cassar spoke at the event.

A list of demands were stated, and were later given to President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca. Some of these included the immediate resignation of the Police Commissioner Lawrence Cutajar and Attorney General Peter Grech, and the appointment of a new Police Commissioner and Attorney General with a 2/3 parliamentary majority.

An array of political and entertainment personalities were present at the demonstration, including President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, Ben Camille, Jay of Oz and Jay, and Giovanni Bonello.

Many different organisations, including many members and students from San Anton School, made up part of this march. 

Members from both major political parties attended the event, even though neither Prime Minister Joseph Muscat nor Leader of the Opposition Adrian Delia attended. 

Chants of “Justice” were heard throughout Valletta, among loud clapping and whistling. John Lennon’s ‘Believe’ was played throughout the march.

Many people were calling on the resignations of institutional leaders like the Police Commissioner. A banner demanding his resignation was hung on the main gate of the courts. 

A banner calling Malta a “Mafia State” was hung by City Gate, before being removed by the police. However, it soon after re-appeared near the entrance.

Many people had immortalised Daphne Caruana Galizia’s last words on placards and shirts. 

The demonstration ended with the crowd coming together in a rendition of the Maltese national anthem. Attendees were asked to peacefully head towards the Police Headquarters in Floriana after the demonstration.

A demonstration was held simultaneously in London.

How do you feel in this dark moment in Maltese history? Let us know in the comments below.

READ NEXT: Daphne Caruana Galizia Assassination: What Do We Know So Far?

Johnathan Cilia

Johnathan is an award-winning Maltese journalist interested in social justice, politics, minority issues, music and food. Follow him at @supreofficialmt on Instagram, and send him news, food and music stories at [email protected]