Speaker Marks 105th Anniversary Of 1921 Constitution

Speaker of the House of Representatives Carmelo Abela stressed that power must always be exercised in the interests of the people during a commemoration marking the 105th anniversary of Malta’s 1921 Constitution, known as the Amery-Milner Constitution.

The Speaker attended the event on 2 October 2026 in front of the Belvedere Tower in Lija, following an invitation from the Lija Local Council. The location was chosen due to its historic connection with the constitutional milestone, as the General Assembly of the time had met at the site.

Abela said that Malta’s constitutional achievements carry a responsibility to protect democracy, strengthen institutions and respect the role of Parliament. He highlighted the importance of maintaining respect for institutions and different viewpoints, while ensuring that political power remains focused on serving citizens.

The 1921 Constitution represented a major step in Malta’s parliamentary development, granting the country its first autonomous government and establishing a bicameral Parliament made up of the Legislative Assembly and the Senate. While certain matters remained under the authority of the British Imperial Government, the Constitution allowed Maltese representatives to take responsibility for local affairs.

The Speaker said that the Belvedere Tower represents more than an important historical and architectural site, as it is linked to a key moment in Malta’s constitutional journey.

He called for the anniversary to serve as a reminder of the duty to protect democratic values, strengthen institutions and continue building on the constitutional legacy inherited from previous generations.

Abela thanked the Lija Local Council and all those involved in organising the commemoration.

#MaltaDaily