The government needs to explain why Enemalta head of accounts Louis Attard who has been charged in court in connection with the smart meters scandal, did not face harsher charges due to his position as a public officer, the PN said today.

In a reaction, the Ministry of Home Affairs said it did not interfere in the work of the police or the Attorney General.

Addressing a news conference, PN deputy leader Beppe Fenech Adami said that the Energy Ministry, Justice Ministry and Home Affairs Ministry should clarify the situation to quell any suspicions of political interference.

He said that it was quite ironic that a person tasked to look after the corporation's money was accused with electricity theft.

In the eyes of the law, this particular case could not be treated like that of any other common citizen, he insisted.

Opposition spokesman for Home Affairs Jason Azzopardi referred to Article 141 of the Criminal Code. This says that every public official or employee who is guilty of a crime which he was supposed to prevent is liable to be given a harsher sentence.

MINISTRY SAYS IT DOES NOT INTERFERE IN POLICE, COURT WORK

In a reaction, the Ministry of Home Affairs said it did not interfere in the work of the police and the Attorney General.

It said that through their statements, Dr Fenech Adami and Dr Azzopardi wanted the government to interfere in the charges issued against Enemalta personnel.

The ministry said the charges were similar to all the officials.

The theft of electricity had been taking place since the time of the former government, but it was only now that a number of people had been investigated and arraigned.

The ministry pointed out that Mr Attard's case is still in the stage of compilation of evidence and the Attorney General could, at his discretion, add more charges.