NGO Repubblika on Friday highlighted what is described as campaign of “intimidation and threats of punishment” against Magistrate Gabriella Vella, who had carried out an inquiry into the transfer of three hospitals to the private sector.
Former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat is among a list of people who have been accused in court following the conclusion of the inquiry.
In a statement, Repubblika said “reporting” on Labour media uses action taken by the magistrate during the course of her duties as being wrong. Anyone accused of a crime despises magistrates collecting evidence against them, but not everyone has the same access to the media as Muscat, Repubblika said. This intimidation is a “fascist” way that is used when corruption does not work.
If Joseph Muscat is innocent, he has all the means with which to defend himself like any other citizen. Instead, “he is coordinating a media campaign with the aim of inciting hatred and violence against the magistrate who investigated his alleged crimes.”
This is being done to intimidate others involved in the cases being brought against him – the witnesses, prosecutors, magistrates and judges. “If he is not acquitted, he is implicitly stating, they will suffer the same consequences as Magistrate Vella,” Repubblika said.
The NGO also noted the hateful comments on social media beneath such reports, describing this as “demonization” which is worrisome. The NGO appealed to the responsible authorities to ensure the personal safety of the magistrate, her family, and of all those servants of the State who are loyal to the truth.
It is the duty of citizens to defend servants of the State who protect others from criminals and corruption, the NGO said.