The undersigned fourteen NGOs, pressure groups, political parties and individuals have expressed their “profound concern and unequivocal opposition” to proposed Bill No. 125, which seeks to “fundamentally alter the procedures governing magisterial inquiries.”

In a joint statement, the organisations said that this legislative proposal, currently under consideration, “poses a grave threat to the foundations of democratic principles, including transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of justice.”

The implications of these proposed amendments are “deeply troubling and give rise to serious questions about the future of justice and the rule of law in Malta,” they said.

They explained that “the bill alters citizen inquiry requests, requiring police pre-approval (within six months) before a judge can consider an inquiry request. “This delays justice and deters reporting.”

The bill also imposes a two-year deadline for inquiries, after which materials are handed to the Attorney General regardless of status. The organisations noted that “it requires court-admissible evidence for inquiry requests, potentially excluding credible leads.”

The organisations highlighted the fact that Clause 11 “dismisses pre-2025 citizen-filed requests without a final decision, undermining ongoing efforts and denying justice. Broad-Based Opposition: The Chamber of Advocates and Chamber of Commerce have publicly shared these concerns, together with acclaimed judicial dignitaries, noting weakened judicial oversight and restricted citizen access to inquiries.”

The fourteen organisations urged the government to:

“Suspend the Legislative Process: Halt Bill No. 125 to allow public consultation. Engage in Meaningful Dialogue: Collaborate with stakeholders to reassess the bill. Preserve Judicial Independence: Ensure reforms don’t compromise judicial autonomy or citizen rights.”

“We are committed to the rule of law and fundamental rights. This bill is a step backwards for democracy,” they said.

This statement is endorsed by the following organisations, listed in alphabetical order:

ADPD – Sandra Gauci

BirdLife Malta – Caldon Mercieca

Daphne Caruana Galizia Foundation – Corinne Vella

Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar – Astrid Vella

Friends of the Earth – Martina Camilleri

Kopin – William Grech

Kunsill Studenti Universitarji – Emma Degabriele

Indipendenti – Matthew Borg Cuschieri

Momentum – Katya Compagno

#occupyjustice – Joanna Agius

PMP – Silvan Agius

Residenti Beltin – Billy J McBee

Sliema Residents Association – Anna Maria Baldacchino

VOLT – Arnas Lasys.

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