Government denies allegations it threatened artists over Caruana Galizia Concert

The ministry for justice and culture this evening categorically denied allegations that the Government had threatened musicians working in the public sector with dismissal, if they participated in a concert being organised in honour of Daphne Caruana Galizia.

Earlier this evening Lovin Malta reported that it was in possession of emails received by some musicians, in which the alleged threats were made.

“The concert will take place on 11th November outside Parliament and is open to all musicians and singers. However, informed sources told Lovin Malta some musicians have been warned by people high up in government they risk losing their jobs if they attend. This website is in possession of more details, but has chosen to preserve them so as to safeguard the workers’ jobs,” read the report.

The article was also referenced in parliament this evening by Nationalist MP Karl Gouder, while Marlene Farrugia and MEP Francis Zammit Dimech both condemned musicians being threatened.

The ministry said it had immediately investigated the allegations by “contacting the heads of public cultural organisations, all of whom denied the contents of the report in the most categorical and absolute terms”. 

In a comment posted beneath the original article, one of the organisers of the event, Michelle Castelletti, denied that threats had been made by the Government.

“I have not been threatened in any way, shape or form – far from it, and I refuse to be used a pawn in a political game.

“It is with a saddened heart and immense disillusionment in society that I am hereby cancelling what was supposed to be a silent demonstration of unity, where music was to speak instead of words.

“My sincerest gratitude and apologies to Arts Council Malta, who could not have been more supportive,” worte Castelletti.