A study on the possible relocation of the Freedom Day monument to a more open and suitable place that bears true identity should be carried out, the Democratic Party said on Sunday, the 40th anniversary of Freedom Day.

Freedom Day marks the closure of the British military bases on March 31,1979, marking the first time in history that Malta had no foreigners occupying any part of its territory.

The monument is located at Vittoriosa seafront, a site associated with the British naval presence.

But the PD said the present location is one that does not attribute the honour and aura that such a monument deserves.

"It has become little better than a traffic island. Moreover it has aesthetically ruined the significance of St Lawrence square and its famed church" the party said.

PD MEP candidate and general secretary Martin Cauchi Inglott and candidate Antony Buttigieg said those older than 40 recalled a different kind of freedom, the freedom where they enjoyed a beautiful unspoilt and tranquil country, with clear blue seas, often referred to the gem in the Mediterranean.

"So has our hard earned freedom really transformed into quality of life?”  

"If it were up to Partit Demokratiku, Freedom Day would be celebrated when we are free from the oligarchs’ grip on government and our public land, and where every business competes equally for government contracts. Real freedom means that all of us are able to realise our full potential and capabilities without political, social and peer influence. When we manage that, then yes, we can start celebrating Freedom Day again," the candidates said.

President, political leaders lay wreaths

President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca laid a wreath on the Freedom Monument on Sunday morning. 

She was accompanied by Prime Minister Joseph Muscat and Opposition leader Adrian Delia.

Earlier the AFM held a parade and a Guard of Honour formed in front of the monument, It was inspected by the president at the start of the wreath-laying ceremony.