A protest was held yesterday in front of the Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) offices, calling for urgent action over the continued captivity of three lions and a panther kept in poor conditions in Naxxar.
Although the situation first came to light in December, activists say authorities have made no real progress toward relocating the animals to sanctuaries abroad.
The protest, organised by animal rights groups, featured several speakers expressing frustration at delays and lack of enforcement.
Althea Galea from Vuċi għall-Annimali criticised VRD’s suggestion to make the current site “adequate” rather than move the animals. “Enforcement is a joke,” she said.
TV host and animal advocate Moira Delia argued that wild animals should never have been brought to Malta. “No one here has the expertise to care for them, especially in emergencies,” she said. Joanna Mallia from Paws4Cause echoed these concerns, warning of the risks to both animals and public safety.
Mark Sultana of BirdLife Malta stressed that the animals’ welfare must come before legal delays. The protest also saw international support, including activists from Italy pledging to raise the issue in Brussels.
The event closed with a chant led by 7-year-old Tyler Pace: “Free the lions!”—a call taken up by the entire crowd.
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Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg inaugurated Howard House in Rabat.
“Howard house is an example of how private investment can feasibly align with national priorities – preserving our architectural heritage while enriching our tourism offering. This project safeguards a piece of Rabat’s identity, while elevating Malta’s appeal to the discerning traveller. We are omitted to supporting such endeavours that celebrate our past while building a sustainable, high-quality future for Maltese tourism” Prime Minster said.
The townhouse was once the central post office of Rabat which had the original family owners living on the upper floor of the building.
The present property owner Mariella Scerri during the Deputy Prime Minister’s visit said, “This is not just about accommodation. Howard House represents a commitment to preserving Malta’s architectural identity – a labour of love to give back to the island I deeply care for.”
