Prime Minister Rejects Byron Camilleri’s Resignation Amid Opposition Calls for His Removal

Prime Minister Rejects Byron Camilleri’s Resignation Amid Opposition Calls for His Removal
Feb 23 2025 Share

Prime Minister Robert Abela has refused the resignation of Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri following the recent drug theft from a container stored on military property. Instead, Abela announced the launch of an administrative inquiry to determine accountability and whether proper security measures were in place.

However, the Nationalist Party and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech are calling for Camilleri’s immediate resignation, arguing that his departure is long overdue. They cite multiple controversies under his tenure, including the ID card scandal, irregularities in LESA fines, inhumane conditions in prison, the escape of two Moroccans from a plane that made an emergency landing in Malta, and now this latest security lapse.

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Richard Whitehead MBE Smashes LifeStar Malta Marathon in 20-Marathon Challenge!

Richard Whitehead MBE Smashes LifeStar Malta Marathon in 20-Marathon Challenge!
Feb 23 2025 Share

Paralympic gold medallist and marathon legend Richard Whitehead MBE has conquered the 40th edition of the LifeStar Malta Marathon, completing his third marathon of 2025 as part of his ambitious 20-marathon challenge for the year.

Celebrating 20 years of running, Whitehead aims to complete 20 marathons in 2025, reaching an overall milestone of 100 marathons. His latest feat in Malta adds to his remarkable journey, with this being his 83rd career marathon.

This year’s LifeStar Malta Marathon was the largest in its history, with a record-breaking number of athletes taking part. Whitehead’s participation continues to inspire, reinforcing his role as a diversity and inclusion champion, motivational speaker, and endurance icon.

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Byron Camilleri Offers Resignation Following Drug Theft from Military Property

Byron Camilleri Offers Resignation Following Drug Theft from Military Property
Feb 23 2025 Share

The Minister for Home Affairs, Security, and Employment, Byron Camilleri, announced on social media that he has offered his resignation to the Prime Minister following reports of a drug theft from a container stored on military property.

In a detailed statement, Camilleri explained that the container, which was being held on the Armed Forces of Malta’s premises due to an industrial dispute at the Freeport, was broken into, and drugs were found to be missing. He stated that the seriousness of the case calls for political responsibility, even though he had no role in the decision or its implementation.

In an immediate response, Camilleri requested the suspension of the Army Brigadier until it is determined whether all necessary precautions were taken. Police investigations, under the direction of the Inquiring Magistrate, are still ongoing to clarify the facts behind this concerning development.

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Malta Marathon Celebrates 40 Years with Record-Breaking Event

Feb 23 2025 Share

The 40th edition of the LifeStar Malta Marathon took place this morning, and was the largest in its history with a record 5,100 athletes registered. This marks a significant increase from the 1,800 participants in the previous year.

The marathon offers various race categories, including the full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.097 km), and a 5K Charity Run & Walk. The 5K event supports three notable charities: Caritas Malta, Puttinu Cares, and HopeXchange Malta. Additionally, approximately 700 children are expected to participate in a 1.5 km race, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and community engagement.

The marathon route begins outside the ancient fortified walls of Mdina, Malta’s medieval capital, and concludes in the coastal town of Sliema. Participants will experience a predominantly downhill course, descending from 195 meters above sea level to the Mediterranean coastline. The scenic route encompasses both countryside and urban landscapes, with the final kilometres running alongside Malta’s renowned natural harbour.

This year’s event will feature prominent athletes, including 2024 Malta Marathon champion and three-time French Marathon titleholder Alaa Hrioud, as well as Italian Marathon champion Oukhrid Lhoussaine. UK Paralympics gold medallist and world record holder Richard Whitehead, known for competing with prosthetic legs, will also participate, highlighting the marathon’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Organizers have announced several road closures to accommodate the event. Notably, the Marsa-Ħamrun bypass will be closed in the direction of Marsa between 8:35 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., with motorists advised to seek alternative routes. Seafront roads in Ta’ Xbiex, Msida, Gżira, and Sliema will also experience closures from 7:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

The LifeStar Malta Marathon continues to grow in popularity, attracting participants from over 80 countries. Its blend of competitive racing, charitable initiatives, and community involvement underscores its status as a premier event in Malta’s sporting calendar.

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