Key Takeaways:
- The Ekurhuleni municipality has reversed the electricity tariff of R126 that sparked protests in Tembisa.
- The reversal was announced at a council sitting and followed public consultations held between September and October.
- The consultations were attended by residents who rejected the tariff, citing the high cost of living and poor timing.
- The Ekurhuleni mayor suspended the tariff to enable engagement with affected communities and address concerns.
- The ANC in Ekurhuleni has welcomed the reversal, saying it will bring relief to households.
Introduction to the Electricity Tariff Reversal
The Ekurhuleni municipality has made a significant decision to reverse the electricity tariff of R126, which had been a point of contention among residents, particularly in Tembisa. This reversal was announced at a council sitting on Thursday and follows a series of public consultations held between September and October. The consultations, which were attended by residents across the metro’s regions, provided a platform for the community to express their concerns and reject the tariff. The reversal of the tariff is a significant victory for the residents, who had taken to the streets in protest, blocking streets and burning tyres in rejection of the tariff.
Public Consultations and Resident Feedback
One of the consultations, attended by Sowetan in Springs, saw less than 30 residents show up, but those who did attend were vocal in their rejection of the tariff. The residents cited the already high cost of living as a major concern, and others expressed dissatisfaction with the timing of the consultations. The consultations were held in the aftermath of the Tembisa protests, which had highlighted the need for the municipality to engage with the community and address their concerns. The feedback from the consultations was clear: the tariff was unaffordable and needed to be revisited. The municipality’s decision to reverse the tariff is a response to this feedback and a demonstration of their commitment to listening to the concerns of their residents.
The Role of the Ekurhuleni Mayor
The Ekurhuleni mayor, Dr Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, played a crucial role in the reversal of the tariff. Following the Tembisa protests, the mayor suspended the tariff to enable comprehensive, inclusive, and orderly engagement with affected communities. This decision allowed for a systematic and effective addressing of the concerns raised by residents, and mitigated the risk of further protests. The mayor’s actions demonstrated a commitment to community engagement and a willingness to listen to the concerns of residents. By suspending the tariff, the mayor created space for a more inclusive and participatory process, which ultimately led to the reversal of the tariff.
Reaction from the ANC
The African National Congress (ANC) in Ekurhuleni has welcomed the reversal of the tariff, saying it will bring real relief to households across the municipality. In a statement, the ANC said, "This victory belongs to the people." The ANC’s reaction highlights the significance of the reversal and the impact it will have on the community. The reversal of the tariff is a demonstration of the power of community activism and the importance of holding elected officials accountable. The ANC’s statement also acknowledges the role of the community in bringing about change and the need for continued engagement and participation in municipal decision-making processes.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The reversal of the electricity tariff of R126 is a significant victory for the residents of Ekurhuleni, particularly those in Tembisa. The decision demonstrates the municipality’s commitment to listening to the concerns of their residents and responding to their needs. The public consultations and the role of the Ekurhuleni mayor were crucial in bringing about this change. As the municipality moves forward, it is essential that they continue to engage with the community and prioritize their needs. The reversal of the tariff is a step in the right direction, and it is hoped that it will bring relief to households and contribute to a more affordable and sustainable cost of living. The community’s activism and participation in municipal decision-making processes will be essential in ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.