Dimechianism : its setting and fruition

Abstract

Emmanuel Dimech is perhaps the most controversial political figure of this century in Maltese history. He is, at first sight, the most mysterious: enshrouded in stigma and contempt in the minds of many, in charisma and genius in the eyes of some, and practically unknown to Maltese historical studies. Dimech may be bitterly disliked because of his convictions, as he was by the influential group. His criticism of the establishment was one long, tireless harangue. He can be easily be misunderstood, as he was even by many of his own class and station. His unconventional. views on religion, society and politics surprised or shocked those people who, even though sympathising with him, had been brought up differently. He may perhaps be dismissed as a fanatic and a charlatan• In his thoughts and the expression of them, during his middle age, Dimech was a violent as he had been in his physical actions, during his youth, having been twice imprisoned.