Thousands Protest Against Government Planning Reforms

This morning, thousands of protesters gathered in Valletta to voice their opposition to the government’s proposed planning reform, under the banner “Justice for Our Land: Kill the Bills!”

The march began at the Law Courts and continued along Republic Street to the Triton Fountain, ending at Castille Square, in front of the Prime Minister’s office, where speakers addressed the crowd.

Participants, representing more than 70 organisations, expressed concerns that the reforms could have devastating consequences for both Malta and Gozo.

Demonstrators chanted slogans demanding the bills’ withdrawal and criticised what they described as a lack of genuine public consultation.

Speakers highlighted issues including overdevelopment, erosion of public spaces, and disproportionate influence of wealthy developers.

Advocates called the reforms a “developers’ wishlist” and accused the government of prioritising private interests over community well-being.

Activists also warned that the new legislation could strain local infrastructure, threaten mental health, and reduce transparency in decision-making.

They stressed the need for environmental assessments and limits on construction according to local capacity.

The organisers signalled that Saturday’s protest is only the beginning, pledging continued action if the bills move forward without meaningful changes.

Citizens urged solidarity across political lines to protect public land, local communities, and sustainable development.

In a post on their social media, activist group Moviment Graffitti shared a photo of the protest, accompanied by the following caption “They were wrong to think we could be stopped. Today, the people made it clear that they are force to be reckoned with. ĠUSTIZZJA GĦAL ARTNA. Kill the Bills. The fight continues.”

#MaltaDaily

Credit: Moviment Graffitti Insta