ADPD: Lift Colonial-Era Gag on Malta Teachers

Imagine standing in front of a classroom, eager to inspire young minds, only to be silenced by a law that’s older than many of your students’ grandparents. This is the reality for teachers in Malta, thanks to a colonial-era gag law that’s still on the books. The Alternattiva Demokratika (ADPD) party is now calling for its immediate repeal.

The Teachers’ Law of 1939, a remnant of British colonial rule, is the culprit here. This law, enacted during the height of World War II, prohibits teachers from making public statements that could be deemed critical of the government. It’s a relic that’s long outlived its usefulness, argues ADPD’s education spokesperson, Dr. Arnold Cassola.

“This law is a remnant of a bygone era when Malta was under colonial rule,” Dr. Cassola told Hot Malta. “It’s high time we lift this gag order and give teachers the freedom to express their views, like any other citizen.”

In the heart of Malta’s capital, Valletta, teachers gather at the Castille Square, the seat of government. They whisper among themselves, careful not to be overheard. They’re not discussing lesson plans or student progress. They’re talking about the law that silences them.

ADPD isn’t the only voice calling for change. The Malta Union of Teachers (MUT) has also been vocal about the need to repeal this law. MUT President, Marco Bonnici, told Hot Malta, “Teachers should have the right to express their views, like any other professional. This law is a remnant of the past that has no place in our democratic society.”

ADPD has tabled a private member’s bill in Parliament to repeal the Teachers’ Law. The party is calling on all political parties to support this bill and finally lift this colonial-era gag on Malta’s educators.

Dr. Cassola concludes, “We can’t keep living in the past. It’s time to give our teachers the freedom they deserve. Let’s lift this gag order and allow them to contribute fully to our society, without fear of retribution.”