“A free country. A country without fear” – PN launches Independence Celebrations 2026

“A free country. A country without fear.”

This is the message with which the Partit Nazzjonalista will commemorate the 62nd anniversary of Malta’s Independence, through a series of activities that will this year see the Independence celebrations return to the Floriana Granaries after an eight-year absence.

During a visit to the Granaries to follow preparations for this year’s Independence celebrations, Partit Nazzjonalista Secretary General Charles Bonello and PN Treasurer Veronica Perici Calascione explained that 62 years ago, Malta began determining its own destiny as a sovereign and independent country. Independence, however, is not simply an event that took place in 1964. Freedom must be safeguarded and defended every day.

A truly free country is one where journalists can carry out their work without fear; where institutions operate without interference; where the truth can emerge; where citizens do not fear those in power; and where no one is above the law.

In light of what emerged during the trial concerning the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, Malta continues to face serious questions about justice, accountability and trust in its institutions.

The message of this year’s Independence celebrations is therefore one of hope, but also of determination. Malta fought to become free and independent. Today, we have a duty to safeguard what we achieved by continuing to work for truth, justice and institutions that genuinely serve citizens. A country that fought for freedom and independence will continue to fight for justice.

This year’s celebrations will also carry important symbolic significance, as after an eight-year absence the Independence festivities will once again be held at the Fosos tal-Furjana – their natural home, just a short distance from the Xagħra tal-Furjana where the Independence ceremony was held.

The Granaries are deeply associated with generations of Maltese and Gozitans who, over the years, have gathered there to celebrate Independence and important moments in Malta’s political history.

Between Friday 18 and Sunday 20 September, the Granaries will once again be transformed into an open space for everyone, featuring political activities and discussions, as well as entertainment for families and young people, sport, music, food and live performances. (See the full programme below).

The Partit Nazzjonalista announced three major shows that will be staged on the main stage over the three-day celebrations. On Friday 18 September, ABBAFever will bring the magic of Swedish group ABBA’s music to the stage through a performance by one of Europe’s best-known tribute bands. On Saturday 19 September, QueenMania featuring Giacomo Voli will present a show dedicated to the legendary band Queen. Giacomo Voli is the winner of the television programme All Together Now and was runner-up on The Voice in Italy. On Sunday 20 September, following the Mass Meeting, Syracuse-based band Pink’s One will take audiences on a musical journey through the repertoire of Pink Floyd.

The celebrations will once again also include the rottArti exhibition, which in its fourth edition will bring together works by 68 local and international artists under one roof at the PN Headquarters from 24 September to Sunday 11 October. The artists range in age from 17 to 91, and the exhibition will feature a variety of art forms, including drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, bronze and pottery.

The celebrations will reach their climax on Sunday evening with the Mass Meeting addressed by Alex Borg, Opposition and PN Leader. Later, at the stroke of midnight, an audiovisual commemoration will be held together with the raising of the Maltese flag, marking the moment Malta achieved Independence under the leadership of Ġorġ Borg Olivier 62 years ago.

Sixty-two years after Malta became an independent country, we must continue working for a free country. A country without fear.

We look forward to seeing you on 18, 19 and 20 September. Back at the Floriana Granaries.

11.09.2026