In a turn of events, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced an inquiry into the tragic death of Jean-Paul Sofia.
The unexpected press conference, held just an hour before a massive crowd was set to gather outside Kastilja in protest, caught everyone off guard.
Thousands were expected to assemble for a poignant vigil, organised by the grieving mother of the construction victim, at 8pm. However, at approximately 7pm, Prime Minister Abela made the surprising announcement of the impending inquiry.
The new government’s stance comes five days after 40 Labour MPs voted against a motion for a public inquiry, which was proposed by the Nationalist Party.
That initial decision sparked outrage around the country,
Today also saw the emergence of high-profile voices supporting the inquiry. Former Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and former president Marie Louise Coleiro Preca have both come out in favour of investigating the circumstances surrounding Jean-Paul Sofia’s tragedy.
With the call for justice echoing through the nation, Prime Minister Abela has now changed his primary decision, and a Public Inquiry will be taking place, whilst the Magisterial Inquiry is still ongoing.
Robert Abela met Jean Paul’s parent at his office in Castille to inform them of the new development. Upon exiting the meeting, the parents did not comment.
The meeting with Isabelle Bonnici and John Sofia took place after Robert Abela met his parliamentary group at the Labour headquarters in Hamrun.
Abela had resisted calls for a public inquiry, whilst insisting that the magisterial inquiry will bring justice.
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