Malta Commemorates Sette Giugno National Day

7 June 2026, 13:02 · Updated 7 June 2026, 19:04

Malta is today commemorating Sette Giugno, a significant national day that marks the events of 7th June 1919. This day serves as a solemn remembrance of the four Maltese individuals who lost their lives during a series of riots against the British colonial administration.

The Sette Giugno riots were sparked by a combination of economic hardship, high cost of living, and a growing desire for self-governance. The unrest led to a confrontation between the Maltese populace and British troops, resulting in fatalities and injuries.

The tragic events of that day are widely considered a turning point in Malta's struggle for independence, galvanising national sentiment and paving the way for greater political representation.

Each year, the nation pauses to reflect on the sacrifices made and the historical importance of Sette Giugno. Ceremonies and tributes are typically held to honour the victims and to reinforce the collective memory of this foundational moment in Maltese history.

Various news outlets across Malta reported on the country's observance of this national day, highlighting the ongoing significance of the Sette Giugno commemoration for the Maltese people.

This annual observance ensures that the memory of the 1919 events and their impact on Malta's journey towards nationhood continue to be recognised and respected by current and future generations.

Today, the President of Malta laid ceremonial wreaths at the Sette Giugno Monument located in Saint George’s Square, Valletta.

This follows a parliamentary commemorative session that took place yesterday. Notably, the Opposition Leader was not present at this parliamentary session.

The Speaker of the House, Anġlu Farrugia, also visited the Addolorata Cemetery as part of the commemorations.

Earlier, Fil-Qosor reported on Malta's commemoration of Sette Giugno. Today, President Myriam Spiteri Debono led a commemorative ceremony in Valletta, paying tribute to the four victims of the historic Sette Giugno events. The President honoured the memory of Manuel Attard, Ġużeppi Bajada, Wenzu Dyer, and Carmelo Abela, who tragically lost their lives during the 1919 riots.

In a related development, the political movement Momentum highlighted that more than a century after Sette Giugno, some voters in Malta still lack parliamentary representation. Momentum argued that smaller parties remain excluded from parliament, despite receiving enough votes to merit two seats.