Joburg DA: Eskom's proposed tariff hike places unfair burden on struggling residents
The party is holding a nationwide protest on Wednesday - opposing the utility's bid to increase costs for households to keep their lights on.
A Democratic Alliance (DA) member taking part in the party’s nationwide day of action in Centurion over Eskom’s bid for another electricity tariff increase on 18 September 2024. Picture: Alpha Ramushwana/Eyewitness News
JOHANNESBURG - The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Joburg says it's firmly against Eskom's proposal for a 40% electricity tariff hike, arguing it places an unfair burden on cash-strapped residents.
The party held a nationwide protest on Wednesday, opposing the utility's bid to increase costs for households to keep their lights on.
As of July, Joburg residents pay R200 more on power every month following City Power’s implementation of an electricity surcharge..
Speaking in Braamfontein on Wednesday, DA leader Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku said that residents could not be left to suffer.
"We are saying enough is enough, the cost of living is already too high. Residents are not getting service delivery and we are saying we reject the 40% increase. We are saying consider the citizens of this country, consider the residents of Johannesburg. Down with this 40% increase, down with it."
Frustrated DA members have taken to the streets of Centurion to demonstrate against Eskom's bid for an electricity tariff increase.
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) September 18, 2024
The power utility wants a 36% tariff increase for its direct customers and a 40% increase for households supplied by municipalities. @Alpha_Mero25 pic.twitter.com/EsmPIOIkO5