GWU’s new administration proudly commemorates the founding of It-Torċa

26 Oct 2026 - Home | News

It-Torċa’s 82nd anniversary is a moment of pride – Jason Deguara, GWU President

The 82nd anniversary of It-Torċa is a moment of pride, but also a renewed call for commitment. It is an opportunity to honour the legacy of those who shaped its history while looking ahead with courage to the challenges and opportunities that lie before us. Since its establishment in 1944, It-Torċa has remained an important voice for workers and a platform for promoting social justice.

The new administration has a clear mandate: to strengthen unity, renew the organisation’s energy and translate commitment into concrete action. In this process, Kevin Camilleri, as General Secretary, and Kevin Abela, as Deputy General Secretary, have a crucial role in leading the GWU’s work and delivering its priorities.

Through collective efforts, continuous dialogue and a stronger presence in workplaces, we can strengthen the organisation and remain closer to our members. As President, my commitment is to ensure that we work as one team, speaking with one voice and acting with determination.

Our priorities are clear: decent wages, better working conditions, greater job security, social protection and an improved quality of life for workers and their families. The future calls for a stronger, more innovative and courageous GWU.

Eighty-two years of history form our foundation; our unity and collective action will build the future, including that of It-Torċa.

It-Torċa: The backbone of a courageous voice for workers and the Maltese people – Kevin Camilleri, GWU Secretary General

We stand at a point where history looks towards the future with immense pride. As Secretary General of the General Workers’ Union, when I reflect on the extraordinary journey of our newspaper, a publication that has helped shape national awareness and consistently championed the rights and dignity of individuals, I realise how important it is that this article should not merely commemorate the past, but serve as a living manifesto of who we are and what we aspire to remain.

Inspired by a longstanding tradition and guided by a forward-looking vision, particularly through the continued contribution of individuals, including past and present editors, whose editorial analysis and reflections have enriched its legacy, we can proudly say that It-Torċa continues to embody the fundamental values of authentic Maltese journalism.

82 years of history, a new chapter for the future – Kevin Abela, GWU Deputy Secretary General

The 82nd anniversary of the founding of It-Torċa provides an opportunity not only to reflect on the history of this newspaper, but also to consider the journey of the General Workers’ Union and its role in Maltese society. Since its establishment in 1944, It-Torċa has been an important voice for workers and their families, contributing throughout the years to the national debate on social, economic and political issues.

This anniversary also coincides with a new chapter for the GWU, as the new administration assumes responsibility for leading an organisation with a rich history and significant responsibilities. Our vision is built on three pillars: Sustainability, Presence and Knowledge. Together, these principles will guide our work to ensure that the Union remains strong, close to workers and prepared for the challenges of an ever-changing world of work.

On this occasion, I would also like to pay tribute to all those who came before us, both in the leadership of the Union and in the journalistic work of It-Torċa. Their contributions and sacrifices have left us a legacy that we have a duty to safeguard and continue developing.

I also extend my appreciation to my colleagues and friends, Kevin Camilleri and Jason Deguara, with whom I look forward to continuing our collective efforts, built on mutual respect and a shared determination to serve workers.

History provides us with the foundations, but the future demands renewal and responsible decisions. As It-Torċa celebrates its 82nd anniversary, our commitment must remain clear: to continue building on what we have inherited while preparing the Union and its institutions for future generations.