The Nationalist Party’s local councillors in Valletta have expressed their solidarity with the Għaqda Festa Madonna tal-Karmnu following the incident in which a statue, described as being more than 100 years old, was knocked to the ground and suffered significant damage as preparations continue for the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
In a statement, the councillors said the incident was not an isolated case, arguing that Valletta residents have repeatedly faced disruptions whenever they prepare to celebrate important religious and community events. They said that the capital city “belongs to everyone except its own residents,” criticising what they described as the Government’s failure to safeguard the locality’s traditions.
The councillors referred to previous incidents affecting the feast celebrations, including a 2024 procession that was delayed until an electricity cable crossing Merchants Street was removed, and this year’s procession, which they said will follow a different route because of a crane erected along the planned procession route.
They said that Valletta residents are seeking the opportunity to celebrate traditions that have formed part of the city’s identity for centuries without disruption. The councillors said they believe financial compensation is not a substitute for protecting these long-standing customs.
The PN representatives pledged to continue working in the interests of Valletta residents and said they would press the Local Council to increase pressure on the relevant authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure that residents’ rights and traditions are respected.
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