Silence Is Complicity: Momentum Calls for Action Against Apartheid and the Death Penalty

Momentum supports the protest organised by Ġustizzja Għall-Palestina and partner organisations on Wednesday 22nd April at 6:00 p.m. in Pjazza Kastilja, Valletta, in defence of human rights, justice, and equality.

The reported adoption of new legislation in Israel introducing mandatory death sentences for Palestinians convicted in Israeli military courts raises grave concerns about equality before the law and respect for fundamental human rights. According to reports, executions could take place within 90 days of a final decision, with no right to clemency for those sentenced. Momentum believes that any legal framework applied differently on the basis of ethnicity or nationality undermines justice and deepens discrimination.

Speakers stressed that silence is not an option while laws of this nature are advanced, warning that they strip an entire people of dignity and risk entrenching apartheid in legal form. They noted that the threat facing Palestinians is no longer limited to imprisonment, but now extends to execution.

Momentum reiterated that silence is not neutrality but blatant complicity. Speakers questioned why Europe speaks strongly about dignity, democracy, and human rights, yet appears hesitant to act with urgency in the face of escalating violations.

Former Maltese President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca  highlighted that politics should serve peace, dignity, and humanity rather than power or self-glorification. She warned that there can be no justice when laws apply differently to one people over another.

All speakers stressed that statements alone are not enough, arguing that Malta and Europe must stand alongside countries actively defending international human rights. They stated that comments made by Malta’s Foreign Minister Ian Refalo are insufficient without stronger political action and a clearer commitment to justice and accountability.

Momentum committee member Katya Compagno stated: Momentum reaffirms its opposition to the death penalty in all circumstances and warns that normalising extreme punitive laws risks creating dangerous precedents that erode rights and silence dissent.

Momentum calls on the Maltese government to adopt a stronger and more principled stance in defence of international humanitarian law and human rights”.

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