Thousands filled Valletta’s streets on Saturday morning, demanding the withdrawal of government planning reforms that protesters say threaten Malta’s future.
The national protest, organised by Ġustizzja għal Artna campaign under the slogan “Kill the Bills!”, drew people from across Malta and Gozo. The demonstration started at the Law Courts and moved towards Castille, with chants calling for transparency, justice, and respect for the environment.
Controversial planning reform
The protest followed the government’s proposal of Bills 143 and 144, together with three legal notices, described by critics as a direct attack on residents’ rights. The proposed changes would limit the right of citizens to appeal planning decisions and reduce the power of courts to revoke irregular permits.
Broad coalition of support
More than 70 organisations joined Ġustizzja għal Artna’s call, reflecting a rare show of unity across Maltese society. The coalition includes residents’ associations, student groups, NGOs and heritage and social justice organisations. Over 160 University of Malta academics have also endorsed the protest, warning that the proposed laws could have “extremely dangerous implications” for the country’s future.
Environmental NGOs raise alarm
Environmental NGOs such as BirdLife Malta, Din l-Art Ħelwa, Friends of the Earth Malta, Nature Trust, and the Ramblers Association, all part of the Ġustizzja għal Artna campaign, warned that the reforms would strengthen developers’ influence while weakening environmental protection and oversight.
Residents from various localities said they already suffer from excessive and uncontrolled development. They fear the new laws will make it nearly impossible to contest harmful projects that reduce their quality of life.
Youth voices lead the call
Students and young activists were also strongly represented. Front Żgħażagħ għall-Ambjent, a youth-led group formed in response to the proposed reforms, urged young people to “make their voices heard before it’s too late.” Student organisations representing law, medicine, engineering and architecture warned that the country’s liveability and future job prospects are at risk.
A call for justice and accountability
The movement’s organisers said the protest reflects “a collective sense of urgency and concern” that transcends political lines. “This is not just about planning. It’s about justice, democracy and safeguarding the common good,” a spokesperson said.
As crowds filled Republic Street, the message was clear: the public will not accept reforms that erode accountability and transparency in planning.
More action achead
The organisers vowed that this was only the beginning of their campaign to protect Malta’s heritage, environment and residents’ rights.
With growing support across sectors of society, Ġustizzja għal Artna said the government must now listen to the people’s call, to Kill the Bills.