More than three years ago, I was an independent candidate for the St Paul’s Bay local council election.

Months later, the Electoral Commission had legally proceeded against all candidates who didn’t submit the expenses bills.

Another independent candidate and myself were each fined €35; with the judge explaining that this was the minimum fine.

During the hearing other candidates had asked for a deferment, as lawyers from the political parties hadn’t arrived.

A few days ago, I discovered that some of the same political candidates were not fined, not even the minimum. This is not a point of wanting the €35 back, but am I different?