The trial of a Maltese businessman accused of orchestrating the 2017 car bomb murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia opened on Monday in Valletta, as the British government reiterated its demand for full accountability in a case that has cast a long shadow over Malta’s rule of law.
Yorgen Fenech, 43, a luxury hotel developer and former director of the Maltese electricity company, pleaded not guilty to complicity in the murder. He is the third person to stand trial for the killing, which drew international condemnation and sparked repeated calls for judicial reform on the Mediterranean island.
Caruana Galizia, 53, was killed by a bomb placed under her car as she drove near her home in Bidnija. She had been investigating corruption and money laundering, including allegations linking Fenech’s family to the Panama Papers scandal. Her death prompted protests and an independent inquiry that found the Maltese state had created a “culture of impunity” for powerful figures.
The trial, held in a high-security courtroom, is being closely watched by press freedom groups and the British government. UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said in a statement: “Daphne Caruana Galizia was a courageous journalist who paid the ultimate price for her commitment to the truth. The United Kingdom insists that those responsible are brought to justice, and that Malta upholds its obligations under European human rights law.”
The prosecution’s case relies heavily on the testimony of a self-confessed middleman, Melvin Theuma, who has been granted a pardon. Theuma has testified that Fenech paid €150,000 to three men who carried out the killing. Defence lawyers are expected to challenge Theuma’s credibility, pointing to his criminal record and motive to lie.
Legal analysts note that the trial is a test for Malta’s judiciary after years of criticism over delays and political interference. The EU has pressed for reforms, and the European Commission’s 2022 rule of law report highlighted concerns about judicial independence in Malta.
Caruana Galizia’s family, who are civil parties to the case, called for a fair trial but expressed caution. “We have waited six years for this day. We hope the court will deliver justice without fear or favour,” said her son, Paul Caruana Galizia.
The trial is expected to last several weeks. Fenech faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment if convicted.
