PRESS RELEASE BY THE OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER The achievements of 1921 bring with them a responsibility to protect democracy today

“Power must be exercised in the interests of the people.” This was stressed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Carmelo Abela, during the commemoration of the 105th anniversary of the 1921 Constitution, known as the Amery–Milner Constitution. He emphasised that our country’s constitutional achievements bring with them a responsibility to protect democracy and strengthen institutions.

At the invitation of the Lija Local Council, the Speaker attended the commemoration held on 2 October 2026 in front of the Belvedere Tower.

The 1921 Constitution, known as the Amery–Milner Constitution, marked a fundamental step in Malta’s parliamentary development. It gave our country its first autonomous government and a Parliament comprising two chambers: the Legislative Assembly and the Senate. Although reserved matters remained in the hands of the British Imperial Government, the Maltese gained responsibility for managing local affairs. This was a historic achievement that opened a new chapter in the journey towards sovereignty and full parliamentary democracy.

The commemoration was held in front of the Belvedere Tower because of its connection to this historic milestone: the General Assembly of the time had met there. “This place therefore has a value that goes beyond its architectural and historical beauty,” the Speaker explained.

The Speaker stressed the importance of respect for Parliament, institutions and differing opinions. He concluded with an appeal for this commemoration to translate into a commitment “to protect our democracy, strengthen our institutions and continue to build on the constitutional legacy left to us by those who came before us”.

He thanked the Lija Local Council and everyone who contributed to the commemoration.