A thirst for justice drives our criticism, Repubblika president says

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Tista’ taqra bil-Malti.

A thirst for justice drives our criticism, Repubblika president, Robert Aquilina said, during a discussion program aired on 103FM – Malta’s Heart.

Aquilina together with Moviment Graffitti activist Andre Callus, and John Busuttil were invited on Andrew on 103, hosted by Professor Andrew Azzopardi to discuss hate speech.

Aquilina, an anti-corruption activist who became more prominent during the political crisis of 2019 as well as in his role as president of Repubblika, said the NGO’s criticism is not driven by hatred by a thirst for justice.

He observed that anti-corruption activists are frequently accused of hate speech, however, this was a tactic to deflect criticism while at the same sow hatred against them.

Callus said one had to distinguish between discourse which would constitute hate speech and thus is unlawful and discourse which is deemed unacceptable within society.

He explained that discourse may target an individual or groups within society such as ethnic minorities.

Hate speech and social media

The guests also discussed the role of social media and how it fuels hate speech. Former PN activist who turned to Labour, John Busuttil, recalled how he was targeted by both PN and PL supporters in 2013 after he switched allegiance.

Despite the insults, Busuttil stuck to his decision which was motivated by a “valid” reason.

Asked whether people felt freer to air their opinion on social media, Callus pointed at clickbait articles, saying that research has shown that certain headlines and articles fuel rage on a given subject.

Aquilina also spoke about the work of NGOs that strive to reach to a wider audience, even those considered inaccessible. The lack of tolerance towards other ideas and tribalism are an issue in Malta, Aquilina noted, adding that party media stations do not improve the situation, as they are being used in an abusive manner.

Repubblika members have been on the receiving end of hate speech, Aquilina said, adding that those in position of power had fueled tribalism and fanaticism. It is not the first time that anti-corruption activists have been dubbed as enemy of the state by government supporters.

The full discussion may be found below:

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