In view of yesterday’s Vodafone’ s revelation of the existence of secret wires allowing government agencies to listen to all conversations on its networks, Alternattiva Demokratika, the Green Party of Malta is requesting immediate clarification from the government and Vodafone Malta.

Vodafone International said wires had been connected directly to its network and those of other telecoms groups, allowing agencies to listen to or record live conversations and, in certain cases, track the whereabouts of a customer. It is unlawful in Malta to disclose any information related to wiretapping or interception of the content of phone calls and messages even when such capabilities exist.

Henrik Piski, spokesperson for digital society, said: “Once again it has been revealed that the right for privacy has been breached by governments. The right of privacy is a fundamental right which cannot be breached.”

Alternattiva Demokratika Chairperson, Prof. Arnold Cassola, said: “While it is understandable that the State is justified in guaranteeing the security of its people, it has to do some explaining on why so many thousands of citizens have been eavesdropped through Vodaphone alone. What about the other operatiors in Malta? Moreover, it is unacceptable that the orders for such eavesdropping are authorised by the Minister. It is only an independent member of the judiciary that should be allowed ot grant permission for such cases when the request is founded on serious premises.”