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Bribery 🧑‍⚖️

Murder Trial Gripped by Bribery Allegations, Witness Recants

Malta's attention remains fixed on the ongoing murder trial of businessman Yorgen Fenech, accused of complicity in the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. Dramatic testimony from former OPM chief of staff Keith Schembri included allegations of a €400,000 bribe offered to a key witness by Fenech's lawyers. This led to a courtroom confrontation where the witness, Johann Cremona, initially refused to answer, then admitted to fabricating the bribe claim.

Beyond the high-profile trial, local news highlights concerns over urban development, with the Gżira mayor raising objections to proposed high-rise towers and the Planning Authority approving a controversial block in Nigret.

Meanwhile, the government is discussing environmental projects, and the Justice Minister has signaled an increase in road fines. New regulations are also being introduced to limit cab drivers to 12-hour workdays. An editorial underscored the need for a comprehensive population plan to address issues like congestion and strain on services.

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Fenech Murder Trial Sees Bribery Claims and Witness Recantation

The murder trial of businessman Yorgen Fenech, accused of complicity in the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, continues with intense proceedings. Former OPM chief of staff Keith Schembri testified about an alleged €400,000 bribe offered to witness Johann Cremona by Fenech's lawyers. This led to a dramatic courtroom exchange where Cremona initially refused to answer questions, then admitted to fabricating the bribe claim. Schembri also faced questioning about his relationship…

Concerns Rise Over New High-Rise Developments

Proposed high-rise developments around the former Empire Stadium area in Gżira are causing concern for the local mayor, who is calling for careful assessment. This comes as the Planning Authority controversially approved the construction of the Nigret block despite numerous objections.

Government Addresses Environmental Works, Road Fines, and Transport Regulations

The Prime Minister has engaged in discussions concerning ongoing environmental projects. In other policy news, the Justice Minister, Clifton Grima, indicated that on-the-spot road fines are set to increase, while new regulations will limit cab drivers to a maximum of 12 working hours per day. An editorial highlighted the country's need for a comprehensive population plan to tackle issues like traffic congestion and strain on public services.

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