In a country where freedom of speech is present on paper yet interpreted in various ways, it is no shocker that the Nationalist Party is pushing for Rachel Tua's resignation over a silly photo.
Prime Minister Dr Gonzi depicted as Muammar Gaddafi - shared on Facebook by Rachel Tua, Labour's Equal Opportunities Officer and Labour Councillor. |
Is the photo ridiculous? Certainly. Is it unprofessional for a politician to make fun of the Prime Minister in such a tacky way? Probably. Is it insensitive? Maybe. Those coming up with this brilliant idea seem to forget that it was their beloved ex-leader who was all chummy-chummy with the ex-Libyan leader. However, that's beside the point.
Why should Ms Tua resign? Why was Joe Grima made to resign for speaking his mind in light of what was said regarding Dom Mintoff's death? As ridiculous or blasphemous as it may be, everyone should, or rather, HAS the right to utter what they like. What some people fail to realise is that everyone has the same opportunity to speak their mind nowadays... One has two options when faced with something they don't like: ignore or retaliate. It's as simple as that.
This picture isn't saying that Dr Gonzi has a penchant for Asian prostitutes - that might be deemed libellous and may call for action. This picture is mere satire, and God knows we need to lighten up on this uptight little pebble. You see politicians being made fun of ad nauseum abroad. It's high time that the Maltese learnt to take this kind of thing with a pinch of salt.
Seriously.