Post by Pavol Szalai

🇲🇹 Many may not remember anymore, but almost nine years ago a journalist was assassinated in Malta. Today, the long-overdue trial of the alleged mastermind has started in the capital, Valletta. Daphne Caruana Galizia was killed on 16 October 2017 near her home in Bidnija by a bomb placed under the seat of Peugeot 108 and detonated by an SMS on distance. Her blog, "Running Commentary", which was extensively covering corruption in Malta, had more views around the elections than the number of Malta's inhabitants. She also investigated the energy deals of the man standing trial for ordering her killing, Yorgen Fenech. Several individuals have been convicted for the crime, but not yet the mastermind. I have been in the Criminal Court today alongside Daphne's family, Maltese press and a few foreign journalists. Today, the jurors have been selected and instructed by the judge, the bill of indictment has been read and Yorgen Fenech has plead non guilty. It's my third time in Malta - I have never come for holidays. From the small, beautiful Mediterranean island, I want to pass this message: This historic trial must expose the truth about the despicable criminal plot and the deadly chain of events that led to the execution of a journalist within the European Union. Ending impunity in this emblematic European case would give a boost to the fight for justice everywhere else in the world. Malta owes Daphne and her family truth about her killing. Justice must be served. If you want to learn more about one of Europe's most courageous, truth-seeking journalists, read the book published by her youngest son, Paul Caruana Galizia. See Reporters Without Borders (RSF)'s statement on the trial in the first comment. Corinne Vella Matthew Caruana Galizia Andrew Caruana Galizia The Daphne Caruana Galizia Foundation 📷 with Daphne's family by Gabriel Spiteri. Thank you for your support and for your journalism, Caroline Muscat and Julian Delia at The Shift News.