Times of Malta’s 90-Year Question Sparks Backlash on Social Media

The Times of Malta recently asked its readers on Facebook a provocative question: “Where will the Times of Malta be in 90 years?” The query, tied to an opinion piece by former journalist Ivan Martin, envisioned a future where “trust is rare and truth is under siege,” arguing that the paper’s most significant legacy would lie in the journalistic standards it upholds.

However, the post appears to have triggered a wave of scepticism and criticism among commenters, with the responses reflecting deep mistrust toward the publication.

A Chorus of Discontent

Several readers offered blunt predictions about the paper’s fate. Paul Portelli envisioned it “down the drain,” suggesting even founder Lord Strickland would be “weeping over the ruin.” Charlie Mamo likened the paper to a comic, saying, “It’s already Beano.” Salvu Mallia was equally direct, writing, “Hopefully gone!” — a remark that drew a wry response from Camilleri Christopher, who noted that in 90 years, “everyone reading this will be gone, that’s for sure.”

Other comments were sharper in tone. Dennis Van De Riet accused Times of Malta of failing to investigate stories, pushing “blood libel,” and promoting anti-Jewish sentiment. Joseph Duca chimed in with “Reca Materna,” a line from the Catholic Requiem Mass, effectively delivering a mock funeral prayer for the newspaper. 

A Reputation Under Scrutiny

While the original opinion piece painted the Times as a potential bastion of integrity in a future plagued by misinformation, the comment section revealed a gap between the paper’s self-image and how some members of the public perceive it. The responses reflect broader tensions between legacy media outlets and increasingly sceptical audiences, particularly in an age when trust in journalism is often contested.