In the heart of Valletta, at the bustling St. George’s Square, teachers from various schools across Malta gathered yesterday, their voices echoing against the historic buildings. But their chants were not the usual calls for better wages or working conditions. They were demanding an end to a centuries-old gag order that has long silenced their profession.

The Association of Democratic Progressive Teachers (ADPD) is calling for the immediate lifting of a colonial-era gag order that prevents teachers from speaking out against the government. The order, a remnant of Malta’s British colonial past, dates back to the 1930s and is enshrined in the Education Act.

“It’s absurd that in the 21st century, teachers in Malta are still bound by a gag order that was imposed during the colonial era,” said ADPD President, Mark Muscat. “This order stifles academic freedom and prevents teachers from contributing meaningfully to public discourse.”

The gag order, Section 122 of the Education Act, prohibits teachers from making statements that could be deemed critical of the government. It carries a penalty of up to two years in prison. While no teacher has been prosecuted under this law in recent decades, the ADPD argues that its mere existence creates a chilling effect, discouraging teachers from speaking out.

“Teachers are expected to instill critical thinking in their students, yet they are themselves gagged from practicing it,” said Muscat. “This is a contradiction that we can no longer accept.”

Malta is not alone in grappling with the legacy of colonial laws. Other former British colonies, such as Kenya and India, have also been reviewing and repealing outdated laws. In Malta, however, the issue has gained traction recently, with the ADPD’s call to action resonating among teachers and the wider public.

In a recent survey conducted by the ADPD, 85% of teachers expressed support for the repeal of the gag order. Many cited the need for academic freedom and the right to express their professional opinions without fear of reprisal.

The ADPD has submitted a proposal to amend the Education Act, seeking to remove the gag order. They are calling on the government to engage in dialogue and work towards a swift repeal. Meanwhile, they are encouraging teachers to exercise their right to protest peacefully, within the bounds of the law.

“We will not be silenced,” said Muscat. “We will continue to raise our voices, to march in the streets, and to advocate for the repeal of this outdated law. Our students deserve teachers who are free to think, to speak, and to inspire.”