- Two civic organizations marched through the Tshwane CBD in protest against load disconnection and electricity rate increases.
- A memorandum was delivered to Nersa to demand the retraction of the rate increase.
- The organizations said it was “rude” for South Africans to pay more for electricity amid rolling blackouts.
South Africa’s National Energy Regulator (Nersa) must apologize for approving electricity rate increases.
The demand was made by #NOTINMYNAME and the Mamelodi Nellmapius Eesterust Stakeholder Forum as the two organizations marched on the energy regulator’s headquarters in Pretoria on Friday.
A small group of about 60 protesters marched from Paul Kruger Square to Nersa in protest against the approved 18.65% rate hike amid rolling blackouts.
At the Nersa building, the protesters met with members of Azapo, who had allegedly been protesting against the rate increase since the beginning of the week.
While #NOTINMYNAME often protests against violent crime, the loss of cargo has affected the country to such an extent that they have been forced to vent their frustration and anger.
“NOTINMYNAME and the Mamelodi Nellmapius Eesterust Stakeholders Forum have watched and are appalled by the decision-making (or lack thereof) that has legitimized the looting scheme that is cargo shedding,” the memo to Nersa said.
ROLL-UP COVER | Eskom and cargo shedding news as it happens
“As it is, citizens are paying for a service that is interrupted at a given moment without just cause. So, it is impolite for Nersa to grant a rate increase of 18.65%, for people to pay more for a service that receives less and less.”
The memo also touched on the negative impact that continued blackouts have had on the livelihoods and businesses of South Africans.
Two civic organizations marched Nersa for electricity increases.
“An impact that Eskom has not and will not compensate them. Instead, South Africans are forced to pay more for their own loss.”
The two organizations made two demands: that Nersa postpone and/or delay Eskom’s rate hike until a balance has been established and there are reasonable grounds to authorize the increase in the cost of electricity; and an official apology to the citizens of South Africa for considering the rate increase as a viable option.
“The consequence of not adhering to the demands or opening a discussion with the organization within 21 days is a total closure of Nersa’s economic activities for as long as we deem appropriate.”
Organizations will also march to the Union Buildings to deliver another memo.
