Morning Briefing
PN calls for recognition of Palestine
The Nationalist Party has called on the government to immediately recognise the State of Palestine, following Prime Minister Robert Abela’s hint at major diplomatic developments next month. In a statement, the PN condemned the situation in Gaza, describing the deaths of thousands of civilians — including children — and the denial of basic aid as a breach of international law and human rights. The PN reaffirmed its belief that lasting peace depends on mutual recognition between Israel and Palestine, urging the government to act without delay. (Times of Malta)
New large Burmarrad shopping mall approved by PA
The Planning Authority has approved the construction of a large four-storey shopping mall on a 5,123sq.m site currently occupied by Burmarrad Commercials’ car repair and rental depot. The project will feature a supermarket, retail outlets, catering establishments, office space, and four underground parking levels with space for 572 vehicles. The application was approved by a vote of eight to two, with St Paul’s Bay mayor Censu Galea and NGO representative Romano Cassar voting against. Galea opposed the project because it lies outside the development zone, although he acknowledged it complies with a 2020 planning policy that reclassified the area as commercial. (Maltatoday)
Criminal Court revokes Lilu King bail
The Criminal Court has revoked bail for Mohamed Ali Ahmed Elmushraty, also known as social media figure “Lilu King”, for the second time, overturning a Magistrates’ Court decision to release him. Madam Justice Natasha Galea Sciberras upheld an appeal by the Attorney General, who argued for the cancellation or tightening of Elmushraty’s bail, previously set at a €40,000 deposit and €200,000 personal guarantee. The court flagged a repeated disregard for bail conditions, noting the 32-year-old Libyan national had breached three separate sets since 2019. Most recently, he admitted to breaking two sets of conditions within three months of being granted bail in March 2024. (Newsbook)