Animal Liberation Malta held a protest on the steps of Auberge De Castille in Valletta on Saturday 7th September, calling for the immediate abolition of horse carriages (karozzini) due to the exploitation and suffering of the horses involved.
The action, was addressed by Tanya Fontebasso, Althea Galea, and Darryl Grima, each addressing different aspects of this outdated and cruel practice.
Tanya Fontebasso opened the protest, highlighting the daily hardships horses endure. “Karozzini is nothing short of animal slavery,” she stated. “These horses are forced to pull heavy carriages in the sweltering heat, amidst traffic, and on hard city streets. We can no longer tolerate this suffering for tourism and tradition.”
Althea Galea followed with an emotional speech, focusing on the ethical concerns and the public’s demand for change.
“We are evolving as a society,” Galea said. “It’s time we reflect our progress by treating animals with the respect they deserve. Tradition is not an excuse for cruelty, and the continued use of karozzini is a blatant disregard for animal welfare and rights.”
Darryl Grima closed the protest by urging policymakers to act. “We call on the government to immediately ban this practice. Sustainable, animal-friendly alternatives exist, and the time for change is now. We will continue fighting until we see an end to this inhumane industry.”
Animal Liberation Malta reaffirms its commitment to the abolition of karozzini and will continue advocating for the protection of all animals from exploitation.
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