Updated: Ta' Giorni school sticks to official Libyan flag
The authorities of Ta' Giorni Libyan School this afternoon refused to haul down the official all-Green Libyan flag, despite the protests of a group of Libyan men.
Talks were held between the school authorities and some of the protesters, without success.
Some of the protesters and an employee of the school almost came to blows at the school's gate but were held apart by the police.
The protesters said they would repeat their protest tomorrow.
Earlier today the green flag was replaced on the flagpole of the Libyan embassy by the pre-Gaddafi flag.
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113 Comments
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Antoine Vella
Mar 3rd 2011, 14:54
Those who are complaining about the protest are actually admirers of Gaddafi. it is disgusting that people abuse democracy in this way, supporting a criminal and a murderer.
DGalea
Mar 2nd 2011, 21:45
I don't see why the LIbjans in Malta cannot be free to express their concerns with what is going on in their country so long as they do it in a civilized manner and after getting prior police permission. After all, its not as if they have thrown fresh horse dung in some public place or something as happened in the early eighties when a daughter of the then prime minister of Malta did exactly that in [protest, in the British Houses of Parlament in the early eighties.
P. S Zammit
Mar 3rd 2011, 11:53
For the sake of many commentors here. Many of us are not saying that Libyans should not have protested as long, as you said that they had the permissions. The only thing that many here are saying is that this thing should not be dragged endlessly to every possible location or situation. It's one thing doing a protest but it's another doing it every day. Also, I don't think that moving to Ta' Giorni was with a police permission.
Some weeks ago there has been a protest in Valletta by maltese people. I don't recall seeing people climbing up walls, removing flags or else needing police intervention to calm down things as happened in ta' giorni.
The main concern here is not the protest part but how much is this thing going to be dragged from one road to another. I think that if such day to day protests would have been done by maltese many commentors would come here to say what a shame are maltese. What I meant to say in my comments is that they had the opportunity to say what they think in the protests at the embassy now it's time to stop.
Franco Farrugia @ Corinne vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 18:33
No. THE main problem with this country is that both political parties accept thugs of all forms. Thuggery nowadays has taken a new form from that of yester-year. This kind of thuggery is peopled, as previously, by turly myopic people who are unable to understand the difference between any other colour except theirs - whether it is blue or red. Not much difference between the two, nowadays.
Ludwig Flask
Mar 3rd 2011, 07:17
@ Franco Farrugia: I agree with you!
Joe Borg
Mar 2nd 2011, 14:45
i wsn't even aware fo the fact the we have an arab school. what next? are they going to trow us out of our own contry, they seem to have taken eveyrwhere
Evarist Saliba
Mar 2nd 2011, 21:55
I have no idea how old you are and how closely you follow what goes on in Malta on matters which go beyond parochial interests. Ta' Giorni was originally St Michael's Teacher Training College, a government property, run by the de la Salle brothers. Mintoff closed the training college and sold it to the Libyan government when his original plan to sell them Mater Admirabilis Teacher Training College at tal-Virtu, which was NOT government property, but that of the Sacred Heart nuns, failed to materialise. For a long time this school functioned without causing any trouble, but there were occasions when, as I stated in an earlier comment, its students caused trouble. Incidentally, there is another Arab-run school in Malta, and as far as I am aware it is giving a good service.
N. S Tanti
Mar 3rd 2011, 07:20
Agree with you 100%.
Just wait for a particular person to tell you how wrong you are. Wait............
S. Degabriele
Mar 2nd 2011, 14:40
Corinne Vella, have you by any chance forgot what democracy is about? Have you so much time on your hands to stay here and write messages to everyone that is against the scenes happening in malta by these libyans? Leave us to comment please because we have our concerns too. You seem to try to shut up everyone that does not agree with you. Can you live and let live please? Can you give us a good example of what democracy is? You seem the official PR of this libyan group. We are in OUR country and we have all the right to speak our concerns and to say that we are tired now. It's already too much the noise that has been happening in Attard. Leave people to comment here in peace and stop jumping to our necks whenever we do not agrre with them.
You speak of what is right for these people and about democracy. Be the one to show some democracy and refrain from insulting everyone that does not share your opinion. MAYBE WE HAVE EVERY RIGHT NOT TO SHARE THE SAME OPINION OF THESE LIBYANS AND YOURS BECAUSE THIS IS MALTA NOT LIBYA.
Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 19:32
1 An example of democracy: You are free to post comments here. So am I.
2 Another example of democracy: You are free to voice your concerns. So am I.
3 Another example of democracy: I am free to say what I like and you are free to disagree with me. You are free to say what you like and I am free to disagree with you
4 I am not the ‘official PR of this Libyan group’. I am someone who does not agree with what you have said.
5 I am in my country too. What has that got to do with the price of eggs? (Note: that is an idiomatic expression).
6 The rights you claim are not yours alone. They belong to everyone, regardless of nationality or citizenship.
7 If you feel insulted when someone disagrees with you, that is a problem of your own making.
10. We agree on one thing: this is Malta, not Libya. That means I can say what I think, just as you can say what you do.
S. Degabriele
Mar 3rd 2011, 06:59
Your comment says enough about what you mean by democracy. Another time a true example about how you jump to the necks of people when someone does not agree with you. I imagine you blocker the mouths of everyone that does not agree with you. Your arrogance is lampant and with this I do not intend to waste anymore of my time with someone like you. Stop insulting the maltese and for once accept what others have to say. It seems that on these pages no one can say anything without you answering each and every comment. Live and let live. We have the right to voice our opinion without you jumping to our mouths trying to close them. Enough Corinne.
N. S Tanti
Mar 3rd 2011, 07:18
@Corinne Vella
Look at the definition of democracy in the dictionary. Leave people to comment freely please. Whatever the comment posted by someone, there's always yours underneath. Haven't you got respect to other people's voices? I don't think that democracy gives you the right to insult whoever does not agree with you. Whoever posted a comment was not replying to you or directing it to you. He/she was giving an opinion so why all this hatred against all commentors here? Why do you have to reply to everyone? As they were not directing their comments to you, your reply is just a detail. It's like you are doing a battle here. Your comments show always your rage against who ever does not agree with you. What makes you think that other people's comments are not valid like you think yours are????? Live and let live and for once try to show some support to your FELLOW MALTESE and their concerns. It's incredible how everything turns to a war here.
Corinne Vella
Mar 3rd 2011, 09:54
N. S. Tanti - It is disturbing that you need to consult a dictionary to understand the meaning of democracy.
Dion Borg
Mar 2nd 2011, 13:26
all these protests in our country by Libyans?? if the Libyans REALLY want to protest they should jump on a flight to Libya and make their voice heard there,if they have guts.!!,simple really..Gaddhafi does not watch TVM..!!..
Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 15:38
Maltese people had protested against Mintoff in London.
Dion Borg
Mar 2nd 2011, 20:24
@Corinne..what's that got to do with the price of cheese??..they didn't go to the Maltese Embassy and ripped up the maltese flag though did they?..and those who did protest regret it today,trust me..!! Don't turn this into local politics..cause if we do, you know that Mr Gonzi was having tea with Gaddhafi only two weeks ago in his tent and brought us the news of goodwill and business as usual with Libya..!!
Steve Zammit
Mar 2nd 2011, 22:01
Re: ''simple really..Gaddhafi does not watch TVM..!!..''
The protests that were held in Malta were not only aired on TVM Dion Borg. From the news I saw this afternoon, a small clip of the maltese protests was also aired on Euronews. I am sure Gaddafi watches Euronews and co.!
Dion Borg
Mar 3rd 2011, 09:21
@Steve Zammit..well if he watched it,that's really going to change his mind is it??..well I think he did watch it and phoned the Embassy and told them to put the Green flag back up,which they did.
Corinne Vella
Mar 3rd 2011, 09:50
Dion Borg - You have missed the point: it is not essential to be in 'your own country' in order to protest against its government. Maltese people are free to protest against Gonzi in any country that recognises the right to freedom of expression.
Jon Fenech
Mar 3rd 2011, 13:54
It seems everyone acknowledges the fact that these protests get air time and are viewed around the world. So, what next? Will Gaddafi step down cause someone changed a flag in a school?
What I'm sure of is the hundreds of calls I'm getting from tourists cancelling their flights to Malta as they are afraid we are part of this havoc!
So when it will effect the Maltese directly we'll see how long we'll still be sympathizing with these harmless protests. Sure lives come first not the pockets but OUR lives depend on the same pockets too. No tourism = no work. I'd like to see how many of them will support the fellow Maltese brothers for the repercussions this will bring. Foreigners causing turmoil is unacceptable. Protest, [it's a given right] make your point but know your limit.
Thank you.
Franco Farrugia
Mar 2nd 2011, 12:45
Let me put it even clearer.
Oblivious of what is happening in Libya:
If I had to be away from my country and I got news that there was fighting and danger within my country, there first thing I would do is to pack and return home, to be with my family and to be amongst my friends, and to be IN MY HOMELAND, in its hour of need. And NOT demonstrate in whichever country I am currently visiting or staying in! Point made, I hope!
Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 15:31
Well, bully for you. Now, show those Libyan ninnies how it's done by leading the charge into Libya.
Franco Farrugia @ Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 18:27
I will do no such thing; firstly, cos I don't need your advice in order to act; secondly, because I would rather leave all that to those bloggers and commenters who are already thumping on their chests and squealing useless war-cries against the tyrant. As if they, and their children, are going to lead the masses to destroy the tyrant with whom we were laughing merrily up to a few days ago.
Corinne Vella
Mar 3rd 2011, 09:53
I have no doubt that you would act without my advice. I would never advocate posting inane comments.
F Desira
Mar 2nd 2011, 12:41
At the moment does the flag really matter?
Lets hope and pray that the Gaddafi era is over...
Lets pray that no more innocent libyans are killed.....
Lets seek help here in Malta so that we can send food, medicines and all other necessary things for all the libyans in Libya...
All the above should be our first and only priority....Libyans will think about the flag later... don't worry about it....
Evarist Saliba
Mar 2nd 2011, 10:43
Why on earth is there all this hullabaloo about Libyans trying to persuade other Libyans to their point of view on such vital matters, as long as they do so within the limits of Maltese law? Of course, it is only natural to prefer that the problems of others should not bother us. It could also be selfish.
For those with short memories, or too young to know, the Libyan school at Ta' Giorni had nurtured pro-Ghaddafi students who chased and attacked a lecturer all the way to Bahar ic-Caghaq. His fault was that he was not pro-Ghaddafi enough. His fate? Unknown, because the Maltese authorities of the day prefered not to make it public. Some maintain that he was killed. What we see today is something quite different which is accepted in free societies.
J Gatt
Mar 2nd 2011, 10:20
@ Corinne Vella. I think that you will think differently if these people threaten you or your family or frighten your kid just because a FOREIGNER in YOUR country decides to protest AGRESSIVELY!!
Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 15:23
If anyone has threatened you or your family, file a complaint at your local police station. Such matters are not taken lightly. Do note, however, that feeling afraid is not tantamount to being threatened.
S. Degabriele
Mar 2nd 2011, 08:25
@Corinne Vella especially
I would wiish to see you battle against other people like you battle against your brothers and sisters maltese for these libyans. Many commentors here are taking it alot badly against those that are saying it's enough now (which is true). I hope you are not one of those that take took these pages to shame the maltese when they protested in Valletta some weeks ago. It seems that when maltese do a protest to express their feelings alot of people come here to play the cool ones and shame their fellow maltese whereas when foreigners do the same there are all the excuses beccause of their rights, democracy etc. I think this is ridiculous. Someone said Laqgha tal-barranin and this is true, very true.
A flag is a piece of cloth whether green blue or red makes no difference to the people that are being killed. Can't they understand that the police nowadays have enough to do than waste their time with their protests? And then the aggressiveness they show. Democracy is where you do not force no one to do what you want but I guess they still cannot understand it.
J Gatt
Mar 2nd 2011, 10:39
RIGHTLY SAID!!!!
Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 15:30
I agree with you. One aspect of democracy is that no one should force anyone to do their bidding. As a champion of that principle, why do you expect people to keep quiet simply because you do not wish to hear them?
As for doing battle – your melodramatic term for posting comments here, at least inform yourself properly about your wider context before charging into your “battlefield”.
S. Degabriele
Mar 3rd 2011, 07:01
Corinne, this is your continuous battle against us and please STOP insulting everyone here. Shame on you!!!
Corinne Vella
Mar 3rd 2011, 09:48
S. Degabriele - That you are unable to cope with criticism is indicative of the shallowness of your thinking. If you expect to comment freely, then expect others to do the same. If you interpret disagreement as an insult, hatred or rage, the fault is yours, not mine.
Paul Abela
Mar 2nd 2011, 08:07
Until now Gaddafi is still the head of Libya and so with him the Green Flag.When these Libyans overthrow Gaddafi,they can change their flag. Also they want to change the flag to the old days of the King when they were really poor people. Again now they want to overthrow Gaddafi, We all remember how much the Libyans said bad things about Reagen when he tried to overthrow him from power.
Joe Cassar
Mar 2nd 2011, 01:03
Let’s make a few things clear;
- Gaddafi has been clearly rejected by his own people. Even apart from his record in the fields of human right, his rule is illegitimate and he should leave – immediately.
- The protests in Libya are legitimate and heroic and deserve all our support.
- The protests in Malta are something else. They serve no useful purpose whatsoever and their only result is to put further strain on our already overstretched institutions. Moreover, since they have no quarrel with the Maltese government or system, they have no right to break Maltese law – like entering premises unlawfully.
DGalea
Mar 1st 2011, 23:54
Out of respect for what the ordinary folk in Libja have endured these last few weeks in their quest for freedom and democracy , that flag should have been removed.
Franco Farrugia
Mar 1st 2011, 21:34
I scoff, literally, at commenters and bloggers who try however feebly to misinterpret comments made by those whom they don’t like, for one reason or another.
The PM is doing a good job during this crisis and I have been among the first, even before those who usually give him a political ‘man forte’, in praising him. Malta was also BOUND to help the Libyans in their war against Gaddafi and I agree that we have done very well, excellently even, as far as humanitarian aid is concerned.
But let there be no mistake – Malta will be among the first to suffer any backlash that can come about, should Gaddafi get back to power. If this had to come about, I hope that those voices who at the moment are sentimentally praising our country will also have the guts to defend us.
In the meantime, it is absolutely essential for the forces in the country to be focussed on the most important things, and not have to nanny some Libyans who appear to have nothing better to do other than demonstrate on the streets of Malta and congregate outside schools!
DDESIRA
Mar 2nd 2011, 09:44
I totally agree with you 100% as I myself am sick of all these protests going on in my country and from the majority of the comments it seems that i'm not the only one!
Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 15:32
DDesira - people like me are sick of comments like yours. Does that mean you should shut up?
DDESIRA
Mar 3rd 2011, 10:43
Sorry Ms Vella but i believe I also have the right to feel and say that I'm annoyed with this situation!!
Corinne Vella
Mar 3rd 2011, 17:08
I agree with you that you have the right to say how you feel. My point was that everyone else has that right too.
Bill Khan
Mar 1st 2011, 20:31
@R. Abohason,let us not make this in to a ridiculous game more than uit already is.
Is there any thing Ghaddafi has done which has been good for the people of Libya?
Way back in 1991 i know that each Libyan citizen was getting 1000 dinnars (= £4000) from the state. Ghadaffi ensured skinned Libyasn from the south of Libya were not discriminated against. He encouraged them financially. Today there are stories of 165 black skinned persons imprisoned in the jail of Al Beyada. Why, because the so called democracy loving protestors thought they were mercenaries. Theywere not they simply are proghadafi because he ensured they were not mis-treated. In Benghazi homes of black people were burnt. And these were poor Nigerians mostly. They are fearful of going out and are locked in.
Perhaps you can answer what exactly are you protesting about? No one knows what exactly are the demandsf.it is democarcy send some elders and sit down with the regime with a trusted mediator and discuss the future of Libya. Elase you will just have a regime change. And the powers your rich assets. Torture i am afraid is yet to come under the guantanamo water boarding brigade.
M.Cachia
Mar 1st 2011, 22:08
The majority of LIbyans today earn $2 a day, while billions are siphoned off into the dictators pockets. How else do you think he has all those billion, not millions ta, billions. What are they protesting about - i don't know, how about
A) Torture
B) Murder
C) Poverty
D) Nepotism
E) Despotism
F) Lack of Freedom
Thats just a little flavour for you. Oh and I'm sure Gaddafi would have loved to sit down with his opponents and have a nice chat, and then most probably hang them later that afternoon, who do you think you're kidding. Now I have one little question for you - Have you ever been or are under the employ of the LIbyan Government Mr. Khan?
J.Bezzina
Mar 1st 2011, 19:27
Thanks to these Libyans we had something to watch on TV. However now we're bored with same news and these protests in our country. Please go to where you came from to protest and fight your dictator and close this mess once and for all.
Corinne Vella
Mar 1st 2011, 20:52
News reports are not filed for entertainment.
Ms P M Graham
Mar 1st 2011, 19:22
Flying ones Country flag symbolizes pride in ones Country, so the green flag should not be flying out of respect for all those being slaughtered in Libya right now. Compromise.
As for, "Some of the protesters and an employee of the school almost came to blows at the school's gate but were held apart by the police", PFFT, I have seen worse at the fruit and veg stall.
Mario Ellul
Mar 1st 2011, 19:04
These Libyan dudes sure have loads of free time it seems.
It must be the national pass time to have an aversion to work.
Daniel Mangani
Mar 1st 2011, 22:00
I think that if we were in the same situation we would be 'wasting' just as much time fighting for the rights and dignity of our people. What would the point of working otherwise?
Paul Bonnici
Mar 2nd 2011, 00:28
You are very prejudiced. You have no idea how much these Libyans suffered in their country.
It is in Malta that they can make themselves heard by the world, in Libya they get shot. They are brave men.
Joseph Cachia
Mar 2nd 2011, 03:21
they are all renegades, run away from responsability.
rhonda Balzan Bastow
Mar 2nd 2011, 06:17
What a really inane comment. A very nasty and cheap shot at a people watching their own countrymen and communities being slaughtered by their own leader.
Mario Ellul
Mar 2nd 2011, 13:24
I stand by my comment.
Many people suffered in bad times in history, including us maltese, but we still went to work.
This flag tag game is kiddie stuff, these young gel haired dudes should be in Libya fighting for government change and not in Malta making noise and grabbing green flags.
jscerri
Mar 1st 2011, 18:50
ginger says that he doesn't know what the group should do next...I suggest to all the group to get back to business and make yourselves useful and productive. If you cannot settle down and watch fellow libyans fight for freedom in libya you can always join them...but here in Malta you surely do not need to hassle the already strained police force with your capture the flag thing...
S.Abdilla
Mar 1st 2011, 18:17
Please, dthey have all the right to change their flag on every building that represent Libyans. A flag is a mean of identity and surely they want to be identified as the New Libya and not by the Gaddafi's Libya. The green flag represent Gaddafi, the pre-Gaddafi's era flag represent the Libyans without any association with Gaddafi and they should have it as a form of their identity. I agree with them afterall they are simply seeking their true identity.
Franco Farrugia
Mar 1st 2011, 20:03
I am sorry to disagree with you. We are already up to our necks immersed in this conflict; they have no right to anything because they are guests in our country!
Corinne Vella
Mar 1st 2011, 20:49
Franco Farrugia - Universal human rights are 1) human and 2) universal. That means they are everyone's and not yours along. Citizenship is not a pre requisite for the enjoyment and exercise of one's rights. That is why everyone is free to say what they think, no matter how foolish or ill-informed. As has been pointed out elsewhere on this page, if you wish rights to be applied selectively, you should move to Libya.
S.Abdilla
Mar 1st 2011, 21:07
They are citizens of this country and not guests. As they have Maltese citizenship they have all the rights as we Maltese have with nothing less. We cannot take this right from them as well as their leader had done in the past 42 years. I'm sorry to disagree on this point.
Franco Farrugia @ Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 14:20
Quote: As has been pointed out elsewhere on this page, if you wish rights to be applied selectively, you should move to Libya. Unquote.
I don't think that I need 'move to Libya' in order to find situations were rights are applied selectively. Staying in Malta, and having to do with certain people I can mention, is quite enough, thank you.
Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 15:34
Franco Farrugia: That must be why you're all over the internet, telling the world what you think.
Franco Farrugia @ Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 18:30
Exactly.
At least, my opinions are those of the average citizen; at least, my opinions do not have the aim of hurting, hurting, hurting people endlessly. At least, I am not pushed by spite and hatred for fellow-people when I muse and comment. If that's far too problematic for you, well ... you know what to do with yourself.
S. Degabriele
Mar 3rd 2011, 07:05
Franco Farrugia, a great applaude to you. Intelligent people show comments like yours. I agree with you. It's enough now. It seems no one can post any comment without getting some hatred from this Corinne Vella. Live and let live Ms. Vella. These pages are to voice our opinions and not to get back with your tyranny.
Corinne Vella
Mar 3rd 2011, 09:52
S Degabriele - If you wish to know the meaning of tyranny, you could consult Muammar Gaddafi. As you say, these pages are for us to voice our opinion. That is what I am doing, just as you are. I need neither your permission not your agreement to do so any more than you need mine.
Corinne Vella
Mar 3rd 2011, 09:59
It seems difference between us is that I am here to engage in debate, whereas you here to seek approval. It must be very upsetting to find that not all average citizens agree with you.
Franco Farrugia
Mar 1st 2011, 18:05
No, I do not believe that protests should be taking place within our country.
Secondly, as a school, Ta' Giorni should not be made to enter into any sort of dispute. I don't think that they are at fault to stick to what they presently think is the best way for them. At best, they should put down the flag and not hoist anything else.
Protests should take place in Libya, not in Malta.
Corinne Vella
Mar 1st 2011, 18:59
What you believe is not relevant. What is relevant is that the right to protest peacefully belongs to everyone, and not just to Franco Farrugia on timesofmalta.com
Albert Farrugia
Mar 1st 2011, 19:34
Well, sorry mate, they are happening and they will continue in this free land. If protests bother you so much, try to get on one of the last planes to Libya, where protesting is outlawed. There you will have a very quiet life!
Franco Farrugia
Mar 1st 2011, 21:23
@ Corinne Vella: I don't think it was a 'peaceful' protest because people nearly came to blows. Secondly, schools should not be mixed up into shuffles and protests - there are children in there. Thirdly, every protest, however 'peaceful', alienates the police from more pressing duties. Fourth, I do not go to anyone's country and congregate and protest. Fifth, our country is already immersed in this conflict and I AGREE that Malta should play its part, but hell, not more than its part. Let Malta do its part, as it is doing now. No argument about that, of course.
@ Albert Farrugia - I will NOT do as you stupidly suggest because I am Maltese and this is my country! I repeat, the Libyans in Malta should not cause further problems to the internal security of the country in which they are being welcomed. We have enough problems as it is.
Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 15:36
Franco Farrugia: One of the biggest internal problems in this country is myopic bigotry.
R Abohason
Mar 1st 2011, 18:01
Some of you said 'this is just a school'. Well it seems that Gaddafi used his schools to oppress students and teach them in a military way. So yes, all 'his' schools are perceived in the same way by Libyans, as a sign of torture and oppression.
Some of you who speak have never listened to the horrifying stories that these people can recount.
G. Mangion
Mar 1st 2011, 17:59
Are these the same Poeple we nearly all the maltese Nation saw on xarabank ??
And the Guy saying in Malteae ( ma nafux x'ha naghmlu ) I know he is hurt and I sympatize with him. BUT I geuss they all have to leave these Matters to the Maltese gov't and other high
Authorities Abide by the Law is the best Option When this matter is Over you will get what you
desire.... Hopfully soon too. Think .............!
Corinne Vella
Mar 1st 2011, 19:05
They are abiding by the law that allows them to say what they think and to act on it. If you wish to live under a higher authority that decides everything, then I suggest you move to Gaddafi's Libya before it is too late.
Joe Cassar
Mar 1st 2011, 22:51
@ Corinne Vella
The law allows them to say what they think. It does not allow them to forcibly enter premises against the will of the lawful occupiers.
S. Degabriele
Mar 2nd 2011, 08:30
@Corinne
What abiding by the law? Haven't you seen the agressiveness shown when the school refused to remove the flag? Or your eyes are closed because whatever they do is good because they are libyans and not maltese? I have seen it in the news yesterday. Let's not take their rights much further than they should go. When it is enough is enough. Do they have to destroy the peace in order to feel helpful to their families in Libya. I guess this is doing no good to them. All this free here and free there should not be taken too far now. And I agree with the school, until Gaddafi is not yet gone even if in his last moments the official flag remains that one.
Franco Farrugia @ Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 14:22
It seems you are telling all that don't agree with you to move to Libya. Isn't it about time that you stop this mantra of cut-and-paste proportions? Or aren't you at liberty to move from the stand that you have been given to write?
Joe Gatt
Mar 2nd 2011, 17:17
@Corinne Vella
Invading an Embassy grounds witout permission, would not be lawfull anywhere
Again let me be clear, I am not Pro or Anti. I am all for peaceful protests. I am Maltese, I respect Human rights and the law.
But allow me to comment, and with all due respect.
I should think if a group of protesters invaded a foreign Embassy, I would not think they`ll serve Hot Coffee, Hot Lead, will be on the Menu of the day, more than likely
Corinne Vella
Mar 2nd 2011, 19:36
The embassy is not ‘foreign’. The people who went inside the Libyan embassy are Libyan. It was the ambassador who invited them inside.
Joe Gatt
Mar 3rd 2011, 01:10
@Corinne Vella
The embassy is not ‘foreign’. The people who went inside the Libyan embassy are Libyan. It was the ambassador who invited them inside.
Euronews broadcast, shows individuals climbing up the front of the building to discard the Green flag.
Then the Ambassador must have locked himself out, pls do not pretend to be naive.
What happened yesterday was very serious and an abbuse of our hospitality, such actions may have very serious repercusions
Corinne Vella
Mar 3rd 2011, 10:02
I didn’t get my information 'from Euronews'. I heard it from the ambassador.
Joseph Galea
Mar 1st 2011, 17:47
Lil protestanti:
Ejjew inkunu tolleranti u nhallu lil-haddiehor fil-liberta ghal kwiet.Dan huwa dritt taghhom.L-awtoritajiet ta din li-iskola ghazlu li ma jindahlux fl-affarijiet taghkom u l-istess ghandkhom taghmlu intkhom.Ghawn Malta ghamilna zmien simili qisna taht dittatur fejn partitarji ta partit kienu jighdu "min mhux maghna kontra taghna" ,anke jekk ma tkun thaddan ebda partit politiku ,tlaqqata' wkoll.
Mela ejjew nuru naqra rispett lejn kif jahsiba haddiehor.
Jesmar Cremona
Mar 1st 2011, 17:33
I fully agree with the majority of the comments here; I cannot understand all these protests here(in Malta)... what difference to their cause are they doing?
I hope that the authorities start taking the necessary actions to stop them creating anymore trouble.
Corinne Vella
Mar 1st 2011, 19:03
If you do not understand something, seek clarification. Here's some:
1. There is a country called Libya.
2. It is run by a dictator who crushes any form of dissent by any means, including violence.
3. These people are Libyans.
4. They oppose Libya's dictator.
5. They are in Malta.
6. Malta's laws recognise the universal right to freedom of assembly and freedom of expression.
7. Libya does not (see 2 above).
8. Your last statement is a call to return Malta to the Libya model of strangling freedom.
rhonda Balzan Bastow
Mar 2nd 2011, 06:20
Thanks Corinne,
Brava, well said!!! Speak to someone around you who saw the war in Malta. Let these people vent for God's sake. The purpose of protest iis not always to get a change, but to raise awareness. They are certainly achieving that.
Fenech MD
Mar 1st 2011, 17:27
I can only guess how hurt these people are, but for the sake of the kids they should give example of how to protest peacefully. At this point in time it does not make sense that in order to protest, they should terrorize the kids at the school. It is only a matter of time when the flag will HAVE to be changed.
R Saliba
Mar 1st 2011, 17:18
@Ms P M Graham, M.Cachia, martin saliba. Don't bother commentating. Some people here just stay in their good homes, sit in their comfortable chairs, drinking their hot coffee and think that they and Malta is at the centre of the universe. Their attitude is pathetic. Maybe if they start thinking outside the 'box' and who knows, put themselves in the libyans' shoes, maybe than they will understand the plight of these people. (i highly doubt they can do so though)
saviour deguara
Mar 1st 2011, 17:48
well said mr.saliba.... some people still think that nowere in the world exists or that malta is the best and without any blame for anything...
Robert Callus
Mar 1st 2011, 17:03
Go and protest in Libya? Sure, as soon as you arrive at the airport ask for a piece of cardboard write "Down with Gaddafi" on it and ask where the nearest protest is!
victor pulis
Mar 1st 2011, 16:50
What about Gaddafi Gardens next to the mosque? Will it have to be renamed?
C Falzon
Mar 1st 2011, 18:09
It should have been renamed a long long time ago, say about twenty four years ago.
M.Cachia
Mar 1st 2011, 16:29
Shame on most of the commentators. What do you mean go back to your country? You'd sent people back to a war zone to possibly die just because you are slightly miffed at them. And who ever mentioned the Maltese Flag? I agree with the protestors, every single vestige of gaddafi's regime should be removed, NOW!
J Farrugia
Mar 1st 2011, 17:28
Foreigners are not allowed to protest in Malta. This is OUR COUNTRY and I dont go abroad protesting about this and that. THIS IS OUR COUNTRY not theirs. One protest is enough. There is a limit to tolleration.
M.Cachia
Mar 1st 2011, 18:53
Some of them are citizen's of the republic, holding dual citizenship. Therefore they have the same rights as you or me to protest this is THEIR country also. If you don't like it, tough cheese to you!
K. Mifsud
Mar 1st 2011, 20:26
@ J Farrugia
You seem to be missing an education in human rights. You are lucky that others understand the concept better than you and that you benefit from the resulting freedoms.
Andy Towler
Mar 1st 2011, 21:02
@J Farrugia: "Foreigners are not allowed to protest in Malta."
Where on earth did you get that idea? The European Convention on Human Rights gives people specific rights to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly and association. Surely if someone is living and working in Malta, they are covered by that?
martin saliba
Mar 1st 2011, 16:26
@ Christian Scibherras. Clearly you have never expeirienced the lack of freedom to eat , drink and express yourself the way you want without being beaten with a 2 x 4.
@ Joe Cassar. As long as they are peacfull protests let them be. If you have been following the protests in Malta you would have noticed that the protestors objected when , Graffiti if im not mistaken , joined the protests with placards showing the prime minister hugging gaddafi. Please note , i dont like gonzi.
@ N. Pace . Most of them DO want to go
@ N S Tanti. If they try to remove the Maltese flag from anywhere then you would have something to protest about and you just might start to understand why they are protesting. The question is would you.
Brian Gatt
Mar 1st 2011, 17:24
Yes I agree with those commentators that say that this has gone too far, they made their point now its enough, the authorities already have enough on thier hands with all the people fleeing Libya coming to Malta they don't need any more hassle then they already have.
If they have anything more to say or complain about they should take it to the source - their country, their leader.
J Farrugia
Mar 1st 2011, 17:27
Martin Saliba trid tkun veru iblah biex tghidilna li ma nafux x'jigifieri tkun bla liberta'. Hekk konna fi zmien Mintoff meta l-inqas kont tista tattendi meeting nazzjonalista ghax kienu jsawtuk bil-lembubi, jarrestawk, jitfghulek il-gass tad-dmugh. U tigi bahnan bhalek u tghid lilna li ma nafux x'jigifieri nuqqas ta' demokrazija. Kontu ghoddkom wassaltuna fil-precipizju ta' gwerra civili. Forsi tal-barrani ma kienx bizzejjed biex forsi xi hadd bhalek jitghallem ftit minn xhiex ghadda l-poplu malti fi zmien il-labour?! Tghid mhux ser tghallimna int.
Ms P M Graham
Mar 1st 2011, 16:13
Can you really blame them for trying to do something, no matter how trivial it may seem to others? No matter how small?
These people are seeing the same pictures and newsreels that everyone else is seeing. Their Country is in turmoil and I can't even imagine how helpless they must feel.
It's a quiet, peaceful protest. Have some compassion.
Joe Gatt
Mar 2nd 2011, 17:12
Let me be clear, I am not Pro or Anti. I am all for peaceful protests. I am Maltese, I respect Human rights and the law.
But allow me to comment, and with all due respect.
I should think if someone invaded your Embassy, I would not think they`ll serve Hot Coffee, Hot Lead, will be on the Menu of the day, more than likely
N. S. Tanti
Mar 1st 2011, 15:28
A clear case that from a finger the whole hand is taken? Haven't you something better to do now? What's next on your demands, removing the Maltese flag from Castille to put up yours????? Just ridiculous and too much.
N. Pace
Mar 1st 2011, 15:27
If they are against Gaddafi, why don't they go to Libya, what use are they to their country here?
M.Degiorgio
Mar 1st 2011, 15:46
Well said...
R Saliba
Mar 1st 2011, 17:20
hasn't it occurred to your brain that these people might live here and have family there?
Wilfred Camilleri
Mar 1st 2011, 17:30
@N. Pace And what use are you to your country here? !!
L. Desira
Mar 1st 2011, 18:00
R.Saliba. so if they live and have their family over here, why are they bothered with the Gaddafi issue. i mean I care, I want him down, but I don't go to protest. if he cares so much, protesting in Malta isn't really helping the cause, especially putting this much effort into replacing a flag of a school, in Malta.
Those who really care about Libya should be protesting (fighting) in Libya. Period.
R Saliba
Mar 1st 2011, 18:18
L. Desira Please re read my comment. I said they live and work here and have their families there
L. Desira
Mar 1st 2011, 18:49
ukoll! they have their family there, in a war, and they are here arguing about a flag in a school. not exactly the best definition of being there for the ones you love when they need you the most, is it?
Joe Gatt
Mar 2nd 2011, 17:23
@R Saliba, If they had familly there, then they are quite safe and secure, otherwise they could suffer serious consequence, provided that the regime is supposed to be so brutal. In that case their familly will need all possible form of assistance, do`nt you think?
M.Degiorgio
Mar 1st 2011, 15:25
Got the point.....
Joe Cassar
Mar 1st 2011, 15:19
These people are going too far. They are causing unnecessary hassle for the Maltese authorities who are already stretched to the limit.
They should take their protests where they can have some real effect - in Tripoli.
Christian Sciberras
Mar 1st 2011, 15:16
Well, this is getting kind of ridiculous now...
Anthony Borg
Mar 1st 2011, 15:37
No, they are simply seeking their true identity.
Can you blame them after being suppressed for over 40 years.
Ann Kernott
Mar 1st 2011, 15:38
This is silly - This IS a school!! If u feel this way make a loud anti gaddafi but NOT at a school!!!
M. Swain
Mar 1st 2011, 16:03
Ifhimni meta wiehed ikun wasal biex jehles minn xi hadd li kien jichadlu l-liberta ma nahsibx li jkun irid lit-tfal tieghu imorru l-iskola u jaraw kuljum il-bandiera li tirraprezenta lilu minflok dik ta' pajjizhom.