Gay rights’ lobbies have described as “divisive” the President’s refusal to sign the Civil Unions Bill on “moral grounds”.
George Abela’s stance, which was backed by two former presidents, was also criticised by Alternattiva Demokratika.
The Church refrained from commenting but reiterated the position adopted by the Maltese bishops that politicians should “continue expressing their high regard towards this [marriage] natural institution”.
This newspaper revealed on Thursday that the government was forced to put the final approval of the Civil Unions Bill on hold following the President’s informal message to the Prime Minister that he was not prepared to sign it.
The issue, as expected, did not go down well with the gay lobby.
AD, which openly supports gay marriage, called on the President to clear his position and make sure the legislator’s position is adopted.
Dr Abela’s stance was also criticised by Gabi Calleja of Malta Gay Rights Movement and Neil Falzon of Aditus, a human rights NGO.
Speaking to Times of Malta, they said they regretted Dr Abela’s position and accused him of choosing “to prioritise moral values over the real enjoyment by men, women and children of their fundamental human rights”. According to the two organisations, civil unions will not impact the institution of marriage.
“We cannot understand why the current President has, on this particular issue, chosen to adopt a divisive approach. We eagerly look forward to a future presidency that positions human rights, unity and equality above personal understandings of morality, in the true spirit of the office.”
Dr Abela’s successor, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, who had openly opposed divorce on grounds of “conscience”, has already declared she had no problem giving her assent to the new law, which puts civil unions between gays and lesbians at par with marriage between heterosexuals.
The Church, which considers gay marriage in conflict with its teachings, declined to comment on Dr Abela’s stand. A Curia spokesman said the Church had no particular comments to make but reiterated its position as expressed by the bishops last October. It had asked members of Parliament to continue taking measures that strengthen the family built upon marriage between a man and a woman.
Dr Abela’s five-year term at the highest office of the island will come to an end on April 4.