Yorgen Fenech's Jury Trial for the Murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia Begins
Nearly nine years after the murder of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, the jury trial of Yorgen Fenech began today. Fenech pleaded not guilty to charges of complicity in the murder.
Yorgen Fenech's Jury Trial for the Murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia Begins
After 3,180 days since her murder, the jury trial of Yorgen Fenech for the death of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia began today in Malta.
Caruana Galizia was killed in a car bomb attack near her home in Bidnija on 16 October 2017. Today, Fenech, who is accused of being the mastermind behind the killing, appeared before a jury. He pleaded not guilty to charges of complicity in the murder and conspiracy to kill her.
The trial began with jury selection, which lasted around five hours, with nine jurors and six reserve jurors sworn in behind closed doors. Proceedings were briefly interrupted when one of the reserve jurors collapsed and required medical assistance.
The bill of indictment is expected to be read later today, when the charges against Fenech will be formally established before testimony begins. The trial is expected to last several weeks.
Over the years, the case has seen multiple arrests, pleas of guilty, presidential pardons, public inquiries and lengthy court procedures. Five men have already been convicted and sentenced for their roles in the killing, whilst today's proceedings focus on the man prosecutors say organised the plan.
The courtroom has attracted significant international attention, with foreign journalists and media freedom organisations following the proceedings alongside local media. Members of Daphne Caruana Galizia's family, including her husband and daughter-in-law, were present, as was Fenech's mother.
The trial, which will hear testimony from investigators, forensic experts and key witnesses in the weeks ahead, represents a pivotal moment in a case that has shaped Malta's political and judicial landscape for nearly nine years.
Source: Lovin Malta
Source: Lovin Malta