“Those people are wealthy enough to pay their bills, there is no excuse for them not to pay,” he said.

Bassil said that around 23 percent of the total politicians who have been warned earlier have settled their dues while some have claimed they have already paid their bills.

“The company will extend the warning period for politicians who claim they have paid, for one additional month pending a supporting court verdict. But in case, the court reveals the opposite, then the company will slash power supply for them as well,” said Bassil.

Bassil said that the Ministry has opened a complaint office that receives calls from citizens. People can call the office on 1708 or send their complaint online through the EDL website. Citizens can also report electricity thefts through calling 01/560000.

Bassil asked owners of restaurants, resorts, and other tourism facilities to pay their electricity bills as well, warning them that the Company will launch a scrutiny campaign. “Those companies have no excuse for electricity thefts especially with the promising tourism we are expecting to witness,” the Minister said.