Keith Schembri is facing cross-examination in court as part of the ongoing trial of Yorgen Fenech, in a session that is drawing close attention to questions around the 2017 murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.
The former Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister took the stand to answer questions relating to his interactions with Fenech, business dealings, and what he knew about events leading up to the assassination. Prosecutors are pressing him on timelines, communications, and decisions made while he was in office, while the defense is seeking to test the consistency of his testimony against other evidence presented in the case.
The courtroom has been closely following each exchange, as Schembri’s account touches on key aspects of how power, business, and state institutions intersected during that period. His statements are being weighed alongside documents, messages, and prior testimony from other witnesses.
Fenech is charged in connection with the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia, and the trial has become one of the most closely watched legal proceedings in Malta in recent years. The cross-examination of Schembri is seen as central to establishing the context around alleged motives, opportunities, and relationships that prosecutors say are relevant to the case.
Outside court, members of the public and civil society groups have gathered, underscoring the national significance of the proceedings and the demand for accountability. The judge has reminded all parties that the purpose of this phase is to clarify facts and allow the jury to assess credibility.
The cross-examination is expected to continue over several hours, with both sides addressing contradictions, gaps, and new details. Whatever emerges from Schembri’s answers is likely to shape the next stage of the trial as the court moves closer to its deliberations.
