UPDATED: 17 animal welfare organisations call for Commissioner’s independence following non-renewal of Alison Bezzina’s contract

UPDATE:

Seventeen of Malta’s leading animal welfare organisations have signed a joint open letter expressing “deep concern” over the government’s decision not to reappoint Alison Bezzina as Commissioner for the Welfare of Animals.

The coalition – which includes groups such as Vuċi għall-Annimali, Gozo SPCA, The Island Sanctuary, and the Real Animal Rights Foundation – said the decision was especially troubling given the “clear public consensus” that Bezzina had carried out her duties “with distinction,” elevating the role “to new levels.”

In the letter, addressed to the Prime Minister and the Labour Government, the signatories argue that Bezzina’s removal “sends the wrong message” to those who wish to serve in public office with “integrity and dedication.” They also pointed out that under current legislation, Bezzina could have legally continued in her post for several more years.

The organisations stressed that the issue at hand is “one of respect – respect for the role, for the individual serving in it, and for the animals it was created to protect.”

Calling for constitutional and legislative reform, they urged the government to ensure the Commissioner’s independence by making the position answerable to Parliament rather than directly appointed by the Minister, similar to the appointment process for the Ombudsman and other independent oversight roles.

“A Commissioner who must scrutinise the state’s performance cannot operate effectively if their position depends on a Minister who may, at times, be the subject of that scrutiny,” the letter reads.  “To truly honour the purpose of this role, it must be autonomous, structurally independent, and protected by constitutional guarantees against politically motivated dismissal or non-renewal.”

The coalition acknowledged that it was a Labour administration that originally established the Office of the Commissioner for Animal Welfare, and praised past government efforts to strengthen independent institutions. However, they urged the government to extend the same principle to animal welfare oversight.

“Granting full independence to this role is not merely a matter of good governance,” they wrote.  “It is a profound act of respect – for those who serve, and for the animals this office was created to protect.”

The signatories said they hope the letter will act as “a catalyst for much-needed reform” and called on the government to seize the moment to ensure that respect for the office, its holder, and the animals it safeguards “is permanently guaranteed.”

This update follows widespread criticism from advocacy groups and political parties over Bezzina’s non-renewal, which many see as a setback for animal welfare governance in Malta.

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Earlier:

Calls grow for independence of Animal Welfare Commissioner following non-renewal of Alison Bezzina’s contract

The recent decision not to renew Alison Bezzina’s contract as Commissioner for Animal Welfare has sparked a wave of reactions from organisations and political parties, many questioning the lack of explanation and the political structure surrounding the role.

Bezzina, who served as Commissioner since 2020, confirmed on social media that she was informed her contract would not be renewed – a decision communicated with just one week’s notice and no stated reason. She said her “voice made some people uncomfortable” and that she had “revealed truths many couldn’t face.”

Her sudden departure has prompted concern among animal welfare advocates and political observers alike, with several groups calling for reforms to ensure the Commissioner’s independence.

Momentum expressed “solidarity” with Bezzina and condemned what it described as her “shocking dismissal.” The organisation argued that the role of Animal Welfare Commissioner is too important to remain “subject to the whims of a political minister.”  “Her sudden removal, without cause or discussion, sends a chilling message to anyone brave enough to speak truth to power,” said Momentum spokesperson Katya Compagno. The group urged that the position become answerable to Parliament rather than the government, to safeguard autonomy and limit political interference.

Momentum also announced that its upcoming Vision Circle meeting on Saturday, 25th  October, will be dedicated to shaping policy proposals on animal rights and dignity, inviting members of the public to participate.

The Malta Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (MSPCA) also paid tribute to Bezzina’s “fearless leadership and commitment,” highlighting a series of tangible reforms achieved during her five-year tenure.  Among the changes credited to Bezzina were the removal of the 24-hour inspection notice to improve enforcement transparency, the introduction of proposals on ear-cropping and bully-breed regulation, and advocacy for pet-friendly housing policies.

She also pushed for higher welfare standards in zoos, supported the development of new shelters, and championed responsible adoption initiatives. “Alison Bezzina has set the bar high for what it means to advocate with integrity and purpose,” the MSPCA stated, urging authorities to “maintain the momentum” toward a more compassionate Malta for animals.

The Green Party, ADPD, also voiced its disappointment at what it described as the “unexplained” termination of Bezzina’s contract.  In a joint statement, ADPD Chairperson Sandra Gauci and spokesperson Mark Zerafa thanked Bezzina for her “dedicated work to reduce animal suffering,” describing her as a passionate and experienced advocate for animal rights.

Bezzina’s removal, they said, underscores the need for transparency in public appointments, particularly in roles where continuity and independence are crucial.

Bezzina’s term comes to an end as lawyer Fleur Abela takes over as the new Commissioner for Animal Welfare. Abela, daughter of retired judge Toni Abela, holds degrees from the University of Malta and Queen Mary University of London, and has professional experience in civil, human rights, and family law – including projects related to animal welfare.

Her appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the office, following a tenure widely regarded as one of the most proactive in the history of Malta’s animal welfare framework.

While supporters of Bezzina have expressed concern over political influence, others have emphasised the importance of continuity and collaboration in advancing the welfare of animals.