PMNEWS Malta proudly unveiled its latest segment, “Vox Pop”, during a special live program hosted by esteemed journalist Sabrina Agius. The program, aired yesterday on PMNEWS Malta’s YouTube channel, delved into the powerful theme of “Freedom of Expression” and featured an inspiring discussion with guest speaker Phyllisienne Brincat.
The Vox Pop segment, filmed in Valletta, was led by Chris Schembri and produced by PMN Malta. It gave the public an opportunity to express their unfiltered opinions on societal issues, embodying PMNEWS Malta’s mission to amplify the voices of ordinary citizens. This debut highlighted the organization’s dedication to authenticity and transparency.
During the live program, Phyllisienne Brincat shared her compelling insights about the importance of freedom of expression, drawing from her personal experience of a significant legal victory in December 2024. Brincat was acquitted of hate speech charges after remarks she made in October 2023 on TVM’s Popolin were misinterpreted.
Her statements, which discussed theological views linking illness to original sin, were taken out of context, sparking controversy. The court found that her comments did not incite hatred and highlighted that she was not given a proper chance to clarify her views. Magistrate Jean Paul Grech emphasized procedural flaws, such as the lack of testimonies from any of the 150 complainants, and determined that Brincat was wrongfully targeted by public outrage.
This landmark case underscored the complexities of addressing theological beliefs in public forums and reinforced the need for freedom of expression while safeguarding clarity and context.
🎥 Missed it? Watch the full episode on PMNEWS Malta’s YouTube channel to hear Phyllisienne Brincat’s story, her reflections on her court case, and the public’s heartfelt opinions:
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