Silenced No More: The Lili King Rape Case Resurfaces

Malta woke up to a chilling revelation this morning. A woman, known only as ‘Lili King’, has come forward alleging that she was offered money to stay silent about her rape. The alleged perpetrator? None other than Jordan Azzopardi, a prominent local businessman. The incident, which occurred three years ago, has resurfaced, sending shockwaves through our close-knit community.

From Whispers to Shouts: Lili’s Story

Lili, a 28-year-old Maltese woman, has bravely decided to break her silence. She alleges that in the summer of 2018, she was raped by Azzopardi after a night out in Paceville. The incident, she claims, took place in Azzopardi’s apartment at Portomaso, St. Julian’s. Lili reported the crime to the police, but the case was dropped due to lack of evidence.

What has reignited the case is Lili’s claim that she was offered a substantial sum of money by Azzopardi’s lawyers to keep quiet. “I was offered €50,000 to sign a non-disclosure agreement,” Lili told Hot Malta. “I refused. I won’t be silenced anymore.”

Jordan Azzopardi: A Man of Influence

Jordan Azzopardi, a 45-year-old entrepreneur, is known for his successful business ventures in the hospitality sector. His name is synonymous with several popular bars and restaurants along the Sliema and St. Julian’s promenade. Despite his public image, Lili’s allegations have cast a dark shadow over his reputation.

Azzopardi has maintained his innocence, releasing a statement through his lawyers denying all allegations. “Mr. Azzopardi categorically denies these false accusations,” the statement read. “He is cooperating fully with the police and is confident that his name will be cleared.”

#MeToo in Malta: A Growing Movement

Lili’s story is not an isolated one. It echoes the experiences of many women who have come forward in the wake of the global #MeToo movement. In Malta, the movement has gained momentum, with more women finding the courage to speak out against sexual violence and harassment. Local NGOs like ‘Shelter’ and ‘Drachma’ have been at the forefront, providing support and advocacy for survivors.

Drachma’s spokesperson, Maria Attard, told Hot Malta, “We stand in solidarity with Lili. Her courage to speak out is a testament to the changing narrative around sexual violence in Malta. We urge anyone who has experienced similar incidents to come forward and seek help.”

Lili’s case has also sparked a conversation about the need for stricter laws and better support systems for survivors of sexual violence in Malta. Opposition MP Jason Azzopardi (no relation to Jordan Azzopardi) has called for an urgent review of the current laws, stating, “We need to send a clear message that sexual violence will not be tolerated in our society.”

As the case unfolds, one thing is clear: Lili’s voice will not be silenced. She, along with many other brave women, is rewriting the narrative around sexual violence in Malta. This is not just Lili’s fight; it is our collective fight for a safer, more equal society.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, please contact Shelter on 179 or Drachma on 21229038. You are not alone.