DA's Msimanga: Eskom's proposed electricity tariff hike will push South Africans deeper into poverty

JOHANNESBURG - Democratic Alliance (DA) chairperson in Gauteng, Solly Msimanga, said that Eskom's proposal for a 40% electricity tariff increase would push South Africans deeper into poverty.

Msimanga spoke in Atteridgeville on Wednesday, where the party demonstrated against the utility’s request for another tariff hike.

As part of the DA’s nationwide day of action, its supporters across the country demonstrated against what they called Eskom’s inconsiderate proposal.

DA supporters in Pretoria spent the day picketing in the streets of their respective communities, voicing their rejection of Eskom’s bid for a 40% tariff hike.

Most have expressed that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to live in this country, stating they’re already struggling to cope with the high cost of living.

Msimanga says Eskom was concerned only with its own interests, ignoring the millions of people struggling to make ends meet.

"If you are serious about ensuring that you don't have to make a choice between supporting your family by buying your groceries or paying for electricity, come out and sign our petition so that we make sure Eskom gets our message."

Parliament will on Thursday debate Eskom’s proposed 40% electricity tariff increase.